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6/30/2006 02:57:00 PM

Pekerman's major blunder

Oakland Arena
Argentina head coach José Pekerman (left) may face scorn for not playing exciting youngster Lionel Messi, who was thought to be a difference-maker.
Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images

Posted by Grant Wahl

BERLIN -- In a game full of drama, if not the transcendence soccer fans had hoped for, Germany's penalty-kick elimination of Argentina came down to this: Jürgen Klinsmann totally outcoached José Pekerman.

By leaving perhaps his best player, 19-year-old wunderkind Lionel Messi, on the bench for the entire game, Pekerman committed the same cardinal sin that Netherlands head coach Marco van Basten did by refusing to call on Ruud van Nistelrooy in Holland's 1-0 loss to Portugal.

At this level, when one play can make all the difference, you must give your best players the chance to win the game. It was bad enough that Pekerman never gave Messi the opportunity to start in a game that mattered in this World Cup. But it was unforgivable that, with the chance to use Messi as his last sub for forward Hernán Crespo, Pekerman called instead on an inferior player in Julio Cruz. (Van Basten made a similar error late in the Portugal loss, sending in Jan Venegoor of Hesselink instead of van Nistelrooy.)

We'll never know how a difference-maker like Messi would have impacted this game, and if you're an Argentina fan, a fan who had the right to believe your team could win this World Cup, that's a tremendous shame.

Klinsmann, in turn, chose his subs with the kind of wisdom you rarely expect from a first-time coach in the World Cup pressure-cooker. Right winger David Odonkor, a surprise pick for the German roster in the first place, added a pivotal spark when he came on in the 62nd minute. It was Odonkor who hustled back to steal the ball from Juan Pablo Sorín, beginning the sequence that ended with Miroslav Klose's equalizing goal in the 80th minute.

Klinsmann's second sub was another masterstroke. Tim Borowski, a 75th-minute replacement for Bastian Schweinsteiger, merely struck the header that Klose banged home to make it 1-1.

After the game Pekerman claimed that Germany had an advantage because "we had two forced changes" to make for injured goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri and midfielder Juan Román Riquelme. Perhaps, but that still doesn't explain why Pekerman chose to go with Cruz instead of Messi. (The coach later said that Cruz offered a stronger presence in the penalty box than Messi, a strange rationale considering the Argentines were having a terrible time by that point even getting the ball into the box.)

As long as Argentina was playing the best soccer of the tournament, Pekerman got a free pass for not taking full advantage of Messi's breathtaking talents. But Pekerman had to have known that the minute something went wrong, he would be held accountable for it. Now, as his team heads home empty-handed, he most certainly will be.
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Posted: 3:36 PM   by Anonymous
Have to say this was the best match of the tournament, refereeing was great - game was controlled yet free flowing at the same time and I haven't seen a match like that since I last saw Collina ref. Spot on that Klinsmann out coached him too, what was Pekerman thining bringing on Cruz? Lionel Messi is a once in a lifetime talent and can you imagine the force he'd have wreaked coming on in the 85th minute or so? If the game went on as it did that's 30+ minutes that the fresh, rested, wunderkid has to run rings around the obviously tiring Germans. Messi also would have been an almost guaranteed penalty - the kid just doesn't feel pressure as shown by his play at Barca.

Argentina let this get away from them, but beautiful play by the Germans too.
Posted: 3:39 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerman is mainly guilty of employing negative tactics to hold on to a slim lead. The "forced" loss of Riquelme spooked him into playing to hold a one -goal lead. That strategy obviously didn't work too well.

Finishing a game with Saviola, Messi, Riquelme and Crespo on the bench has to be devastating to any Argentina fan. Especially in penalty kicks--though I think if it came to that Lehmann offered a tremendous advantage no matter who was out.
Posted: 3:43 PM   by Nanda
I am ashamed to be an Argentina fan courtesy of negative tactics by Pekerman. He turned this talent-filled Argentine side into English side. The difference between the two sides was the belief to win and the mindset. Pekerman literally handed the semifinal spot to the Germans, here you take it, we have more talent but you guys are the host you should stay in the tournament. I am not surprised he has resigned within hours of the match, I hope Maradona is NOT the next coach because he seems to me driven my emotions, not a coaching material in my mind. But seems like he will have reins of the Argentine football for next years, the future is bright with so much young talent, just need a coach like Klinsmann who can fully utilize the talent. It's sad to see the best team to crash out of the world cup, England is used to playing negative and they survive, Argentina are not.
Posted: 3:44 PM   by Anonymous
exactly.. no saviola no messi . this coach sucked big time!
Posted: 3:46 PM   by Anonymous
As a Brazilian Fan, I loved to watch on TV our neighbours saying goodybye to the WC!! The most Armazing story of the tournament so far!
Posted: 3:48 PM   by Anonymous
germany had 2 win the game
lubos michel was on germany's hand with alot of questionable calls...sorry for football but the best team is going home
germany plays no football it's kicking the ball and hopes it will land on one of their strikers heads...
Posted: 3:50 PM   by Anonymous
I think you would have had to give the advantage to Germany due to Lehmann as well. The loss of the Argentine keeper hurt, for sure, but Pekerman's error really came in his last substitution after the match; to not put your most creative substitute on in a game where you've already lost a player of Riquelme's stature is unbelievable. One thing's for sure though: Diego Maradonna, once he finishes playing the obligatory "too bad we're out" music, is smiling all the way to the manager's position right now.
Posted: 3:59 PM   by Anonymous
Agreed. Pekerman made a few mistakes. Was Riquelme hurt? That makes sense, but at the time I didn't realize why he was being taken out in favor of Cambiasso. Obviously a defensive move, but how many times have we seen, in this Cup and Cups past, a coach decide to settle into a defensive shell with a one-goal lead, only to lose both the lead and the game because the opposition is playing inspired, offensively-minded football? Too many times. Pekerman should have realized this from the start.

Klinsman has the Germany team playing that kind of inspired ball right now. Sure they make a few mistakes here and there, but they are always pushing forward. It has made this Germany team so much more fun to watch that the Germany team of '02.

Nicely done, Coach Klinsi.
Posted: 4:01 PM   by Anonymous
Germany was very fortunate to win this...they looked very average through the 1st half. Spot on with the Messi comments though, keeping him on the bench was criminal. Such a shame, I really wanted to see an Argentina/Brazil final. I'm not sure anyone except France has a good shot to beat Brasil at this point...
Posted: 4:01 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerhead really blew it. His decisions were atrocious. He packed it in and decided to hold on and play anti-football. It just killed me to see the bench with no subs and Messi, Saviola, Aimar, Riquelme and Crespo on the bench knowing that teams get punished for this cardinal sin of holding on and that they would be without any offense when the inevitabl punishment from the Soccer Gods came. What a shame. Argentina deserved a better manager and he deserved what he got.
Posted: 4:01 PM   by Anonymous
Germany was very fortunate to win this...they looked very average through the 1st half. Spot on with the Messi comments though, keeping him on the bench was criminal. Such a shame, I really wanted to see an Argentina/Brazil final. I'm not sure anyone except France has a good shot to beat Brasil at this point...
Posted: 4:08 PM   by Anonymous
It was tactical suicide. Argentina should have played for the win in overtime. Playing it safe to make it into the shootout against Germany offered only very little chances of success. Especially with Crespo and Riquelme off the field.
Posted: 4:10 PM   by Ramon
Just about any team that plays to hold on to a 1x0 lead ends up losing the game. It's the famous "Don't play like a coward" rule.

I'm Brazilian, I should be happy Argentina lost, but I can't bring myself to be happy with the prospect of having to beat Germany in the final match surrounded by 70,000 crazy germans screaming for 90 minutes.

I would much rather play Argentina. Then again, Brazil still has two games to go until the finals, nothing is set in stone yet.
Posted: 4:10 PM   by Anonymous
Oh wie ist es schoen...! YES!!!!!
Go Germany! All the way to the final!!!!!!!!
Posted: 4:10 PM   by Anonymous
Berlin, Berlin, wir fahren nach Berlin!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted: 4:18 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerman really blew it. His decisions were atrocious. He packed it in and decided to hold on and play anti-football. It just killed me to see the bench with no subs and Messi, Saviola, Aimar, Riquelme and Crespo on the bench knowing that teams get punished for this cardinal sin of holding on and that they would be without any offense when the inevitabl punishment from the Soccer Gods came. What a shame. Argentina deserved a better manager and Pekerman deserved the punishment for his sin(s).
Posted: 4:18 PM   by Anonymous
I think we found the world cup equivalent of isiah thomas in argetina's coach pekerman.what a shame that we have to wait 4 years to see Messi let loose on the world's biggest stage. Who hires these coaches with a lack of common sense?
Posted: 4:25 PM   by Anonymous
keeping Saviola, Messi, Crespo, and Riquelme on the bench was the biggest mistake of coach Pekerman. I'm still trying to figure out WHY Pekerman never used Messi for the last minute of this important game, instead he used Cruz? I mean, to replace CRESPO? COME ON! show some respect to the argentina fans and use Saviola AT LEAST.

Having Messi or Crespo, and Saviola playing during the last 20 minutes of the game would've definitly made a big difference.

by the way, THAT WAS A VERY VERY BEAUTIFUL GAME.
Posted: 4:27 PM   by nelson
For once I have to agree with Mr. Wahl. I was definitely surprised by the entrance of Cruz. If Riquelme was hurt then why not a player like Aimar? With Riquelme out Mr. Pekerman just got scared and gave the initiative to the Germans. I wouldn`t go as far as to say that he was outcoached. He was forced to make the substitutions. as for the ref. ... I will never understand how the Germans ended up with one yellow card and the Argentines with four. Similar thing happened four years ago against the US. It is a shame though. Argentina was playing the best football in this tournament.
Posted: 4:32 PM   by betteratFL350
Intelligent coaching is important, this is true, but let's give credit to the youngsters of this unique German team. With every game, they are playing more and more in sync with one another, and Germany finally has an energy that usually characterizes South American teams. Klinsmann is an amazing coach, but it is this hard-working team that deserves most of the credit. I would not be surprised is they continued on to win the entire tournament.
Posted: 4:41 PM   by Anonymous
"refereeing was great". WOW.
I think the refereeing was CLEARLY pro-Germany...Whenever there was a confusing situation -> ball for Germany.
Posted: 4:53 PM   by Anonymous
This article can't even sum up the disappointment I have in what transpired. As a Abiceleste fan, I was overjoyed at seeing the team come together since the start of the Cup. Then today, I'm forced to stare in disbelief as Argentina sub-ed themselves into such a poor tactical decision in order to hold onto a 1 goal lead. This team has been among the best at ball control, one-touch passing, etc.

Not sure if was Germany, but Argentina looked sloppy, pinging the ball up field without any focus. The lack of Riquelme directing in the middle was devastating. That, plus the fact Tevez had to attack practically on his own without the immense talents of Messi, Aimar, or Saviola is a shame. Another 4 years to see what these kids can do on an international stage. Somehow, I feel robbed.

I will tip my hat though to the German squad. Podolski & Klose are a bright future indeed.
Posted: 4:53 PM   by Anonymous
Germany won this game because of they never stopped believing in themselves. Klinsmann did some great coaching as well, but taking Klose out was not an unquestionable thing to do.

Messi would have been a threat but the defense seemed to be capable of withstanding anything the opponent might throw at them. A deserved win by the Germans against one of the three best teams in the world proves that.

Watch out Brasil...Germany is ready to take it all.
Posted: 4:58 PM   by Anonymous
I don't really understand his lineup for this game. Tevez is a great player and can hold the ball, but he already had a target player up front in Crespo. I liked the earlier partnership he had with Saviola. Their different styles played well off of each other. Then bring Tevez in for Crespo. Also, Luis Gonzalez, another great player but a surprise to me as a starter.

The subs were equally bizarre. I agree with the previous poster that Pekerman was "spooked" into playing defensively at the end. Instead of bringing on Pable Aimar, a similar type of player to Riquelme, he brings on Cambiasso a more defensive minded player who is not able to control a game the way they can. As far as the Cruz substitution, he may have been thinking he wanted someone tall in the box, which is not their game. When you've got the quality of Messi, Saviola and even Palacio on the bench and you go to Cruz who has hardly played...I'm still at a loss.
Posted: 5:01 PM   by Gordon
With the kind of football Argentina was playing before this match, they had to be considered the favorites and Pekerman was untouchable. After this loss, I think Germany has to be the new favorite simply by the strength of their resolve and coaching. Lehmann was unbelievable in stopping those PKs.

Die Mannschaft is gone, yes, but the resolve to win still remains, and that can trump many an international star.
Posted: 5:03 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerman is a great coach, he just made a mistake in sending in Cruz. The Germans are pure lucky, Argentina controlled the game from beginning to start, but Klose converted the one chance he had and that's what counts. Argentina's only bad was the finishing touch as the Germans sent in half of their team to the box everytime Requilme had the ball. The German style is boring. I hope Italy tears them apart.
Posted: 5:07 PM   by Anonymous
Real Football starts in September. I can't wait. I think the Broncos are going to dominate this year.
Posted: 5:15 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerman was simply dumbed down in this game. After Germany scored, it was obvious he placed all his cards on penalties. Only a fool would want to settle a game, against the Germans on penalties. He should have killed this game, by bringing on Messi, and starting Cambiasso instead of Gonzalez. To all German fans, this is the end of your joy. You meet Italy, and Lippi. I'm sorry German fans,but here is where it all ends.
Danke!
Posted: 5:17 PM   by Anonymous
Germany has the most heart and that goes a long way!
Posted: 5:17 PM   by Anonymous
To the guy that said "real football start in september"... you wish!
Posted: 5:18 PM   by nrgman@gmx.de
You want to blame the ref?

Why?

Ballack got a arm in his face in the penalty box - yellow and a pkl - but the ref did not see it.

And the attack on Klose, which was not penalized too.

Argentina can not complain about the referee. If Michel had seen that two inicidents, Argentina would have had to play with 10 or 9 players.
Posted: 5:22 PM   by Anonymous
Excuses, Excuses! Germany won and that's it...it was played out fair! Go Germany!!!
Posted: 5:22 PM   by Ted
Playing at home is worth at least a goal in this tournament, maybe more. The home-field advantage renders the results every four years significantly less meaningful. FIFA's failure to seed, resulting in one of the 2-3 best teams in the world playing a good host team in the quarterfinals, is maybe even a bigger flaw. Italy's in the semis after beating Australia and Ukraine, Argentina had to play Germany in Berlin. Brilliant.
Posted: 5:23 PM   by Anonymous
Forget about Broncos. Hail to Redskins!
Posted: 5:24 PM   by Anonymous
There aren't enough people praising Germany's fine time here, so I thought I'd through my 2 cents in. They held their own against one of the team everyone favored to win the Cup.

Idiot coaching by Argentina or not, the coach is part of the team. And I'm pretty sure the coaching didn't have anything to do with Argentian choking to death during the penalty kicks!
Posted: 5:24 PM   by betteratFL350
"The German style is boring." Wow. Nothing could be further from the truth. This is the most energetic and creative team we have seen from Germany in many years. Just watch Philipp Lahm, for example, and how he orchestrates one creative opportunity after another, and you'll see what I mean. Germany is on a roll, and it will take a strong Italian team to stop them (which won't happen).
Posted: 5:24 PM   by Anonymous
The Broncos suck..And as far as "real futbol" ..this is it...it doesn't get any better than World Cup.
Posted: 5:24 PM   by Anonymous
As a German I can only say thank you to Pekerman for his less than stellar decisions. Throughout the first half I was really worried about Germany's chances since Argentina were closing down all the spaces by dropping Tevez back into midfield to defend. I figured when he got tired Messi or Saviola would just come in to further wear out the Germans. When that didn't happen I knew Argentina would lose. Although both teams have never lost on Penalty Kicks, would anyone pick against the Germans in such a situation. Just ask the British about that.

The forced substitution of Riquelme is just sour grapes, these people must not have seen what Ballack limped to the finish line on. Sure they couldn't sub him off anymore but that didn't stop him from burying his PK.

Germany will win this thing, it just seems to be going that way
Posted: 5:25 PM   by Ted
Ballack's "arm in the face" was not a shot in the face, but a rub on the neck; his performance there was the second-biggest dive of the game, after the one by the German player who went down near the Argentine penalty area literally without being touched.
Posted: 5:26 PM   by Anonymous
Funny.
No weak Opponent, no Heat. What shall we do?

Ah i got it. The Refereee, the substitutes, luck.

Of course the germans didn't play good. Thats impossible.

Which excuses will you find after the final? :)

Let's face it: Germany was at the same level, the defense was very good. The young german team won.

They derserved it.
Don't find stupid excuses every time they do so.
Even messi ist not a automatic-winning Wizard.
The best Team is out now, the Cup stays in Germany :)
Posted: 5:26 PM   by Anonymous
To the last post, do you mean the handball season will start in September.
Posted: 5:27 PM   by Anonymous
To whoever it was that felt "Germany's ride will end with Italy"... All I can say is- have you been watching the same World Cup I have? If you have, you'd have seen how Italy only managed to score a tie against our terribly inept U.S. team... Not to mention the horrible dive that resulted in their one goal against Australia, who'd never even played in a World Cup.
Posted: 5:29 PM   by Anonymous
Ive been saying Pekerman was an idiot the whole cup. Sure Argentenia has looked great but he doesnt even play the right players. How Javier Zanetti did not make this team is beyone me. He would have talken their biggest weakness,right back, and made it a strenght. Him and Rodriguez combining on the right side would have added alot to the Argentine attack.

Besides that where was Aimar. Who cares if he is less defensive minded then Cambiasso and Mascherano, he needed to be on the field.
Posted: 5:32 PM   by Anonymous
Germans go on . You have a golden chance to win this cup and you deserve the win over argentina
Posted: 5:33 PM   by Anonymous
This surely was the best match of the world cup. But sad to see the best team being thrown out of luck by German beanstalks.
Posted: 5:33 PM   by Anonymous
haha...nrgman@gmx.de you seriously don't know your football. Ballack playacted and took a nice dive. otherwise why did the referee call a foul on Ballack. the ref was obviously pro-germany.
It's alright...Argentina didn't play to its full potential but they are still 100 times the team Germany will ever be.
Germany is an average team. they don't belong in the elite group with argentina, brazil, italy, or holland.
Posted: 5:35 PM   by Anonymous
Italy is going all the way. Totti is starting to play and if Nesta comes back i dont see Germany being able to score on them, plus their the luckiest team and this tournament and i just think they'll beat Germany, but it should be a very close game.
Posted: 5:39 PM   by Anonymous
The refereeing was indeed great, no need to even talk about it...but just in case you want to, Ballack did not get an elbow in the face, replays clearly show he flopped, trying to get a call in the box...this was a great game, won by a great team...and Argentina definitely showed themselves to be the primadonna, poor losers that they are in the ruckus after the game...and this is from a neutral party...
Posted: 5:40 PM   by Anonymous
Coaching decisions may have been bizarre, but it seemed Argentina often didn't take the shots until the second half of overtime. They played some lovely, balletic soccer,but too often passed down near the goal, giving the Germans time to coalesce into their impregnable defense.
Posted: 5:43 PM   by Anonymous
Argentina was going great till Pekerman brought in Cruz. Why couldn't he have done the right thing and brought in playmaker Messi or striker Saviola? With super talented duo sidelined, he committed a huge error, and brought Argentina to an impossible defeat.Messi would've been the perfect one for the job. He would helped Argentina with some fresh legs and talent that was sorely missing in the late second half. Its a pity that the match ended the way it did.
Posted: 5:45 PM   by Anonymous
What was Pekerman thinking when he brought in Cruz? With super talented Saviola and Messi sidelined, it was no wonder that they lost. What a waste of a talent.
Posted: 5:45 PM   by Anonymous
Messi could have turned the game in Argentina's favour.. What a blunder!!
Posted: 5:45 PM   by Anonymous
To those who think its FIFA's problem in the seeding you're completely wrong. If all the seeded teams had won their groups, you would have Brasil, England, Holland, Spain and Portugal in one bracquet and Germany, Argentina, Italy, and France in the other bracquet. Its not FIFA's fault if France didn't win their group, paving the way for a relatively easy journey for the Italians.
Posted: 5:46 PM   by Anonymous
The worst came after the game, I couldn't believe that Argentinia started a fight on the grass. What an incredible show. Argentinia deserved to get kicked out, if you loose, then do it with heads up and not starting a brawl. Coach Klinsmann is a genius, Pekermann a looney. Germany is so far the most impressive team, with the best fitness (very well shown in the extension time when Argentinia couldnt move their legs anymore), most agressive play and definetly the best fighting spirit. ARGENTINIA GO HOME!
Posted: 5:46 PM   by Anonymous
Despite his error in this game, I think the US should look at Pekerman for its national team coach.

He won three world youth championships and is an absolutely dedicated teacher... which is something the US desparately needs.

This may sound crazy, but set aside his error today and think long and hard about the kind of coach the US needs -- lots of international experience, great at helping develop younger talent, etc.
Posted: 5:47 PM   by Anonymous
1. Germany played average
2. Lehmann is awesome
3. Pekerman's mistake...no Messi
4. Delay tactics by Argentina-wrong
5. Bad sportmanship by Argentina at the end of the match trying to pick a fight is why they have a BAD REPUTATION!
Posted: 5:47 PM   by Anonymous
How often Germnay just happens to win Matches. They always bring luck ( injury to goal keeper, and after that penalties!) But Argentina will always remain a better team than Germany.
It doesn't matter to me how many games Germany wins. Argentina has always produced spirited and plays with extra callibre.
The senior german side would hardly make into Argentina's B side squad.
I am not an Argentinian. I live in Germany. I hope True winners win someday. Respect to Argentina and Maradona.
Posted: 5:50 PM   by Anonymous
Coach Pekerman did the unthinkable by bringing in Cruz. Argentina would've easily won the match with the combined talent of Crespo, Messi and Riquelmie, but Cruz was a waste. and then with the good players sidelined, it was no wonder that it came to PK's. Germany won by a narrow margin, something they should not be too proud of.
Posted: 5:50 PM   by Anonymous
Just poor strategy by the Argentines. They were controlling the middle of the field through most of the game, then they decided to play passive and they got killed for it as always happens.

Playing Cruz is a classic coaching mistake. You try to beat the other team at their game. He was playing for a taller player than Saviola or Messi. But the Argentines win with speed and skill on ball not height and power. That's their style and it was winning this game until Pekerman got scared.

And Requilme should take a page from Ballack's book. Requilme was injured? Really? When? Ballack the floor general for the Germans is writhing in pain spraying his leg down on the sideline but he did everything he could to gut it out and will his team to victory. Requilme gets injured? (yet he is able to walk off the field without a limp) and he leaves the game severely crippling his team who needed his presence in the middle. They also could have used his free kick and corner skills as the game wore on. This is symbolic of this whole game. Argentina was clearly the better team, but Germany just wanted it more.
Posted: 5:52 PM   by Loco4footy
It's fascinating that no matter what sport, once the playoffs begin, some coaches turn ultraconservative and wind up paying the price. Pekerman took a great team and muzzled it against a very ordinary german side. Once Argentina scored and incredibly went into a defensive shell, I commented to a fan sitting beside me that German would soon score because Argentina was letting them have too much possession. Not five minutes later, Ka-boom. Argentina did have the better of play toward the end of game and during the 30 minute extra time, but by then it was too late. What a tragedy!
Posted: 5:53 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerman committed the same error that Marco Van Basten committed when he sidelined star striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy that ended with Netherlands' defeat. He is not fit to be the head coach of Argentina.
Posted: 5:54 PM   by Anonymous
Germany is the best team in this tournament. And there`s nobody who can stop them. Italy plays a very boring and somtimes a terrible football. They
have no chance agains germany. The germans have more power and they`re faster. And the unbeliveable german fans are screaming 120 minutes. You´ll
see it..... At the end the germans win, ever....
Posted: 5:56 PM   by Anonymous
I'm am not a huge soccer fan but i do watch the world cup as it pits country against country. It really amuses me when people state their team is better than the other.. Argentina lost get over it, use any excuse you want, maybe they are the better team, but they lost, maybe their younger and faster but they lost , get over it, theyre going home, theyre on the plane.. coulda woulda shoulda, but they didnt.. they lost
Posted: 5:56 PM   by Anonymous
Beware Azzurri! Remember Germany are playing with 12 players...and i don't mean the fans...i mean they'll probably get another "Good" referee! ha...
Hopefully the better team will prevail this time! Let's go Azzurri!
Posted: 5:57 PM   by Anonymous
I was quite surprised to see the Argentine players crying at the end of the game. Geez guys, grow up.
Posted: 5:57 PM   by Rob
Argentina should have had a penalty kick late in the game. Instead the ref pulled a yellow card on the Argentine player for diving. Totally biased refereeing (or scared of the home crowd).
Posted: 5:57 PM   by Anonymous
Some questionable calls from the referee Lubos Michel definitely worked in favor of the Germans. I don't think the german squad worked hard for this win. Argentina was the more deserving team.
Posted: 5:58 PM   by Anonymous
Funny - I am just reading through the comments, and cannot help but smile! Your bloggers are just as sore losers as the Argentinian team. Has anyone mentioned the post game red card yet, and the 2 yellows given by an excellent ref for all the fakes the Argentinians produced? They have so much talent, what a shame to go with that tactic from the very start, and to try to hold a meager 1:0 for the last 30+ minutes!! Sure they knew that the Germans are the more athletic team, but if you guys are so confident in your skills, then show them! Germany deserved to win - an amazing team, a once-in-the-lifetime coach, and the cinderella story continues!!
Posted: 5:59 PM   by Anonymous
I'm sad that Argentina lost. They had the right talent but due to the bad choices made during substitution by coach Pekerman, they're heading home much earlier than expected. The World Cup has lost its lusture.
Posted: 5:59 PM   by Anonymous
I was shocked when I heard that Germany eliminated the Argentines. The choice to keep Messi on the bench was a decision that will haunt Pekerman's career, and it came back and bit him in the butt. When you have a phenom like Messi on the team, you need to utilize it. Going into the WC and during the opening rounds, the Argentina looked to be the best team. They had the chemistry, the pure talent, the skills, and the ability to be explosive when attacking. they looked to be the champs and Pekerman blew it. I was so looking forward to a Brazil vs Argentina showdown in the finals. Thumbs up to the Germans for putting up a valiant effort against the giants that are the Argentina Football team and they came away with the win. If the German team uses this victory the right way and carry this emotion to the next match, they'll be a force to be reckoned with. But overall Germany was and is not a team worthy to be a WC final team. Coach Pekerman should have taken some notes from the German coach. Pekerman will get his once the team lands in Buenas Aires though. The Argentinians will be furious over this mishap.
Posted: 6:00 PM   by Anonymous
To nelson:
Germany received 3 yellow cards
-> Friedrich
-> Odonkor
-> Podolski
Posted: 6:01 PM   by Anonymous
italy will beat germany? not to be sceptical, but italy is a team that has played well below average and basically being extremely lucky, whether through referee help or other ways. the ridiculous penalty kick against australia was a shame, but it got them to the quarter finals. lets see how they go from here,
Posted: 6:01 PM   by Anonymous
We shall truly see what Germany is made of on Tuesday, because the attacks today probably won't cut it against Nesta, Cannavaro, Zambrotta, Grosso, and Buffon. That being said, Germany deserves a lot of credit for keeping near constant pressure on the Argentines in the latter stages of the game.

As for the Riquelme substitution, it was clear that both he and Ballack were targets early on for some rough play; the two playmakers were both knocked around for most of the first half, and it's no wonder that Pekerman decided to sub out his playmaker. And in that regard, I think it becomes obvious why he made that substitution: to try and preserve the one goal lead for fifteen minutes.

I don't think it's fair to blame Pekerman for that substitution, because any other coach would've made a similar swap (tired offensive midfielder for fresh defensive midfielder) holding a one goal advantage; however, the move backfired because Cambiasso didn't seem to bring the energy that his German counterpart Frings had, despite not playing the entire game. When the goal was scored, Pekerman became the goat; in fact the blame should lie in Cambiasso, who really didn't work all that hard trying to break up the German attacks before they fully developed.

Pekerman IS at fault for the ridiculously stupid decision regarding Cruz. Obviously, Crespo is tired, and needs to come out. I think Pekerman's logic is that the biggest German strength was in the air, and Cruz gave a suitably big defender (if necessary) to try and protect that one goal lead... I think Wahl took the comments out of context to some degree. However, what Pekerman failed to realize is that his team didn't particularly need a big forward (shouldn't his team's play in the previous games without Cruz have indicated this?) to be successful, since their mode of attack was quick touches to feet. In that regard, Cruz was a terrible substitution, since he doesn't really help the team keep their method of attack.

Would Messi have made the difference? I'm not sure, but I'm inclined to think not. Sure, the influx of offense would've helped, but Germany's goal was not a situation that Messi would've helped in (throw-in, pass back to thrower, cross, flick header, goal header), and in addition to that Germany's two central backs certainly still had energy left at the end of the game: they looked to be two of the freshest men on the field. But, we'll never know; however, we do know that the Germans move on to face my Italians on Tuesday... Forza l'Azzurri!
Posted: 6:02 PM   by Anonymous
Worst game Germany has played all tournament and they were still able to grab the victory. Argentina tried to run the clock out too early and it cost them. I had little doubt that Garmany would win the PK shootout with Lehman at goal and the more skilled strikers. I still like Germany to beat Italy and challenge for it all.
Posted: 6:03 PM   by Joe Xavier Garcia
It certainly was a great game. At the same time it appeared that many of the bad calls went against Argentina. FIFA officials should seriously consider replays like in the NFL.
Watching a game won on penalties is like kissing your own sister.

Joe Xavier
Pa. USA
Posted: 6:03 PM   by Anonymous
Togo will rule in 2010.
Posted: 6:04 PM   by alalas
don't cry Argentina...without Messi, what a MESS!!!
Please GO HOME now...uh! DON'T CRY ARGENTINA...
Posted: 6:05 PM   by Anonymous
Why does it seem that everyone hates the Germans.....get a life everyone. I read cnnsi every day, and everytime the Germans win, theres an explanation, and everytime the US loses, theres an explanation....get a life!....Germany is playing beautifully right now. The never stopped fighting in this match, and they came out on top. They are one of the best teams in the world. Argentina and Germany is a very good match, they tied 2-2 twice last year, both times Germany was missing Ballack and Klose. Germany is a true "team"...they play together, and they respect eachother, its not a single man thing like so many of the other teams....Brasil*. Officiating was great in this game, best Ive seen so far.
Posted: 6:06 PM   by Luz
This game is ample proof that teams such as Argentina have got to abandon the 4-4-2 formation. How can Pekerman so stubbornly stuck with such as lousy formation when the team has so much talents up front? At least go with a 4-3-3 with Messi, Crespo and Saviola/Tevez trio. Please, please someone bring the excitment back to football already.
Posted: 6:06 PM   by Anonymous
Cruz was not a bad substitute. He made his PK and almost got a real PK in regulation that could have won it. The guy plays for Inter Milan, it is not like he was a bum. I thought he gave them quality minutes. Plus, he was big and the Argentinians needed that if Germany got any corner kicks. Argentina just lost, no need for excuses.
Posted: 6:06 PM   by Anonymous
Very dissapointed in Seeing my Team Argentina go. The Germans looked great but not better than Argentina. Playing at home and some help from the Referee always helps. How about that call on Maxi Rodriguez? Was that not a foul? Instead he gets a yellow card? Absurd... These referees need to have more respect for the fans and even the teams. I'd have more respect for the Germans if they did not get so many calls in their favor. We'll have to get Italy to stop buying the referees too. Its stupid!
Posted: 6:07 PM   by Luz
This game is ample proof that teams such as Argentina have got to abandon the 4-4-2 formation. How can Pekerman so stubbornly stuck with such as lousy formation when the team has so much talents up front? At least go with a 4-3-3 with Messi, Crespo and Saviola/Tevez trio. Please, please someone bring the excitment back to football already.
Posted: 6:07 PM   by betteratFL350
"Argentina will always remain a better team than Germany." Man, there are really some people posting here who just don't know their facts. Let's review just two facts that really matter in the end: 1.) Germany has one the world cup three times and Argentina has one twice. 2.) Germany has been in the final game SEVEN times while Argentina has been in the final game four times.
I guess "luck" has been good to Germany...right.
Posted: 6:10 PM   by Anonymous
American football is boring and most players are fat. They should change the name of the game to "fatball" in order not to get confused with the beautiful game football.
Posted: 6:12 PM   by Luis
Now, we agree. Pekerman thought he could win by a puny 1 x0 and tried to "play safe". That's when he got in trouble.

Was Riquelme really injured? I don't know where you got that info but it seems it was not the case. Pekerman replaced an offesive midfielder with a defensive one (again, trying to "play safe") and sent Cambiasso in and Riquelme out. Then he took Crespo out (and didn't put Messi in, as he should have) and ran out of substitutions. One minute later, Klose ties the game and Pekerman had his hands tied.

As a Brazilian fan, I'm actually glad Pekerman was stupid enough in this game as to send his team home. A final game against Argentina would be a much, much harder match than one against Germany. The German defensive line is not so consistent as one would expect. They send chills down the spine of their fans every time they cross the ball in front of their box (Crespo intercepted one of those today). But let's take care of France first!
Posted: 6:13 PM   by dirk
If you win through penalties its all about luck - that's for sure. But nevertheless it is not fair to say that Germany is an average team at this World Cup. They played attractive and offensive football. If they will beat Italy, I do not know. But before the World Cup I wouldn't have said that Italy is the better team than Argentina. And to be honest - Italy was really not showing that attractive football before the quarterfinals. So I stick with Adidas: Impossible is nothing! Go Germany!
Posted: 6:14 PM   by Anonymous
Messi should have come instead of Cruz for sure. Did you see how the short quick Tevez drove the Germans crazy with his dribbling around the penaly area? Imagine what that duo could have done if given the chance. And for Cruz? What is the rationale? At least put in Saviola.

The bottom line is if it aint broke don't try to fix it. Just because you have a hard time winning against Mexico doesn't mean that all of a suddden you're going to change the lineup that had gotten you to this point. Start out Saviola and Crespo and make changes as you see how the game develops.

Anyway, for all you Brazilians cheering right now, I guess you're relieved that you don't have to face us. Viva le bleu!
Posted: 6:15 PM   by Anonymous
Have to agree, great refereeing. Especially a lot of courage in the case of Maxi Rodriguez dive. Hope for such a good referee in the semifinal against "the smooth customers" from Italy.

Regarding the Argentinians, I have to say I was disapointed by the play of Crepo,Riquelme,Maxi Rodriguez and Cambiasso. The only real good players I have seen were Sorin and Tevez.
I don´t think that the small and thin Messi or Saviola would have made a difference in a game, in which physical presence was a major factor.

Apart from the chance that Argentina converted for the 1:0 lead, the german defense was standing good.

I think one of the great lessons of this game was, that at this level of play, you can´t get away with a slim lead. Not with nearly 40 minutes to play.

The other lesson is "form beats talent"! The Germans just have the fitness and will power to go the extra yards to overcome their deficits against stronger opponents. Soccer is still an running game. Thanks Mr. Verstegen for this nice little update on high-end fitness!

So the "German Grinders" are heading for the semifinals! Yippee!
Posted: 6:16 PM   by Anonymous
Perhaps all the folks that watched the game that say Argentina had bad luck, the coach is at fault, the young kid Messi would have saved the day, etc. just haven't realized one important thing. The Argentinians had as much chance to win as the German team did. When everything is said and done, it is pretty bad when the German team can score on the penalties and the Argentinians can't. PK's are about 95% of the time "automatic". Could one perhaps say that they ( Argentina)folded in crunch time??
Posted: 6:16 PM   by Anonymous
Messi should have come instead of Cruz for sure. Did you see how the short quick Tevez drove the Germans crazy with his dribbling around the penaly area? Imagine what that duo could have done if given the chance. And for Cruz? What is the rationale? At least put in Saviola.

The bottom line is if it aint broke don't try to fix it. Just because you have a hard time winning against Mexico doesn't mean that all of a suddden you're going to change the lineup that had gotten you to this point. Start out Saviola and Crespo and make changes as you see how the game develops.

Anyway, for all you Brazilians cheering right now, I guess you're relieved that you don't have to face us. Viva le bleu!
Posted: 6:19 PM   by ReadyToRumble
Best officiated game of the WC. This is the first referee who actually communicated with the players and had an open dialogue. That is important for the free flow of the game. Germany looked OK. Argentina were a better side-even without Messi. But it's one and done and you have to admire the German's resolve.
Posted: 6:19 PM   by Anonymous
Sounds like a whole bunch of sour grapes from the fans from Argentina. Perhaps the fans from down under have been spoiled by previous teams. From all the prognosticators comments, this team went further than expected.
Posted: 6:21 PM   by Mirko
The Argentinian and German teams played the best soccer in this tournament. Bloggers favor towards Argentina after the game appears inexplicable: Throughout the first four matches, Germany played the most entertaining and consistent soccer. It was a tactical masterpiece that coach Klinsmann layed more focus on defense in the game against Argentina. Argentina was allowed to play in the midfield, but effectively controlled when attacking. No wonder they had hardly any shots, hardly ever reached the box and their only goal resulted from a corner kick. Whereas the German goal resulted from a nice combination within the game.

Kudos for the two teams of Argentina and Germany who've made this tournament interesting!! In contrary to lousy performances by France, Italy, England and even Brazil. What a shame this couldn't've been the final!!!
Posted: 6:22 PM   by ReadyToRumble
Great officiating. Free flow. But both sides lacked that killer instinct. Germans need to be credited for their unrelenting style. Argentina were the better side-even without Messi. Wish the game produced more scoring chances. FIFA needs to add a yellow for the accumulation during knockout stage (4 games instead of three) and give each team one extra substitute in overtime.
Posted: 6:23 PM   by Anonymous
Argentina was outplayed by Mexico but won the game anyway. Germany was lucky, but just as lucky as Argentina was the round before. And anyone who puts any blame on the ref is an idiot who cannot face facts- this was one of the best called games of the World Cup.
Posted: 6:24 PM   by Anonymous
I think the real mistake was replacing riquelme by Cambiasso in order to play it safe. If Riquelme was indeed injured than he should have replaced him with an equally offensive minded player like Messi to keep pressure on the Germans. Once he put Cambiasso in you could'nt put Messi in for Crespo as Argentina would've had two small forwards in Tevez and Messi (no real physical presence in the air). As someone pointed out Cruz wasn't that bad of a sub since he did score his PK. For me the real mistake was the Riquelme substitution!!!
Posted: 6:24 PM   by gerald
I cant believe some ignorant people are attributing Argentina's loss to bad officiating. The Germans deserves all the credit. Tactically, they were the best team, they went down and never gave back, Ballack and his team fought back and obviusly, Klinsmann's changes was fantastic,he brought on the right men at the right time. At the end, it was the hungrier team that won. Perssonally, i am suprise about Klinsmaan's performance, because he didnt have any prior coaching experience before he was appointed as a national team coach but he has turn a team with no hope at all, to a major world contender. All credits to him. Ballack also outplayed Riquelme, Ballack is just in a class of his own, he goes forward and always know the right time to be back.And Lahm is the player of the tournament so far.
Posted: 6:27 PM   by Anonymous
The german team woke up right after Argentina's first goal. They could have played like that from the beginning on, but they seemed to be too nervous.

We surely have seen the germans play better games, but they proved they are capable of winning against a great team such as the argentinian team, once they lose their fears.

We still shouldn't lose respect for each other...
Posted: 6:28 PM   by Anonymous
I think that putting Cruz was not a wise choice because though his size and strength match the germans. He needed to put in a speedy guy like Saviola or Messi instead.
Posted: 6:28 PM   by Anonymous
Argentine couldn`t created one real chance during the entire match! The goal they`ve scored was a result of a corner kicker - nuff said!

BTW: They are a real unfair team - look at the end of the match. THis would never happen between Germany and England.
Posted: 6:29 PM   by Anonymous
Respect to Argentina and Maradona?

Well, to the former, anyway... at least until their abysmal sportsmanship after losing to a spirited German contingent. What a shame THAT should be the last we see of an excellent team at this WC.

As for the latter, the gifted Maradona burned his bridges with respectable society a good while ago, I'm afraid.
Posted: 6:35 PM   by Anonymous
Seems here a posting many Argentina fans who think Argentina is the best team in the world. Certainly Argentina has very good players, but they are far away from a good team.
This is the main difference to the German team. Average players, but Klinsmann achieved to form a team.



Maybe the Germans had the better nerves at the end; maybe you can call that also luck. But what I didn't like at all that Argentina players attacked after the lost game Germans. No excuses, this is not the way sports should be! After that scenes I had not pity that Argentina lost.
Posted: 6:37 PM   by Anonymous
Announcers need to talk about the match and bring some tactical expertise to the viewing. There is a tremendous amount going on, much intrique, and any play can change the contest. However the announcers just talk about the history, the size of the players, nothing of intrique.

We need some excitement, talk about the pressure the tactics, close ups of midfield plays, that make a differance.

IE a Tim Mccarver or an astute basketball commentary, which would bring the average viewer to attention. Too boring of diatribe from the announcers hurt the contest.
Posted: 6:39 PM   by Anonymous
The ridiculous part is that, before the game, even a young player like Tevez knew the strategy--play on the ground. It appeared that the strategy was working until Pekerman blatantly went the opposite direction and put in Cruz to play air ball--the German strategy. Bizarre indeed. No wonder Pekerman quit in the locker room after the game.
Posted: 6:40 PM   by Anonymous
1)proper positioning to the goal keepers ribcage.
2)thumbs-up & pat on Lubo's back
for the no-penalty call..
Maybe oneday we'll be able to actually watch an honest football
match.
Posted: 6:41 PM   by Anonymous
I am neither German or Argentinian fan . Definitely not Brazilian or Italian. But I am a football fan, and I saw only one place to put the blame. Argentina must assume responsibility for the loss. Germany was superior and the score proves it, otherwise, it would be Argentina advancing. Argentinian fans can make all kind of excuses for the loss, but the fact is, they lost and no referee or coach can could've changed it. It was up to the players, as it has always been in football. Don't cry for me Argentina, you played well, but still got beaten.
Posted: 6:42 PM   by neil
For nrgman@gmx.de

Ayala's hand touched Ballack's face. No question. But did Ballack have to go down as though he'd be caught by a right hook from Evander Holyfield? No. Typical cheating German attitude much like the Dutch players. Ballack is like this when playing for Munich also.

As far as I could see there was only one team trying to attack and win the game. Only the lack of a creative spark and that final touch let Argentina down. Messi should have played but didn't. However at the end of the day you have to put away your penalty kick, which did not happen. Jens is a great shot stopper and did his job.

Germany were never allowed to dominate the game and will face a big challenge against the Italians. They can only hope that the semi-final will also go to penalties.
Posted: 6:43 PM   by Anonymous
the bigest mistake a coach can make by not playing his best playmaker like lionel messi. I do not think that the coach will be ever forgiving. big mistake.
The coach actually let Argentina down. Time to say good bye to coaching the national team.
Posted: 6:43 PM   by Anonymous
This match was not the most exciting in terms of scoring opportunities, but let's be fair and give credit to both defenses for their good job. And who can blame players for being a bit nervous given the significance of the match? I agree with the previous posts on the bad Argentinian coaching decisions and the difference that Lehmann made in the match. BUT!
- Please don't blame the referee for Argentina's loss
- Argentina could learn a lesson or two when it comes to fair-play: Just look at all the theatrics and whining during any matches they have played (almost as bad as Italy) and their shameful behavior at the end of the game. That is when their true nature comes through. In that respect, GOOD RIDDANCE!!
As for Germany, good luck for the game against Italy; the Italians finally need an opponent that can play, unlike the pathetic Ukraine.
Posted: 6:44 PM   by Anonymous
Argentina was supossed to win this Tournament. By far this team is the best player-by-player team in 2006. Unfortunely, things happens and Germany was lucky enough to defeat Argentina and advance to semifinals.

But wait there !!! Here comes Brasil, for shure the next champion for 6th time.

The Americas have the best's soccer teams and most tallented players in the World. No one can contradict that.
Posted: 6:45 PM   by Anonymous
FORZA ITALIAAAA!!!
Posted: 6:49 PM   by Anonymous
This was a good game, well refereed. Unfortunately both teams (and others at this WC) seem to look for a free kick too easily instead of playing on.

It's one thing to look great against a terrible Serbia & Montenegro team, but Germany wouldn't let Argentina play like that on home soil in the quarter finals.

It actually ended with Argentina looking more like England - missing their penalties against Germany!
Posted: 6:53 PM   by Anonymous
Do not let the immediacy of the match cloud your commentary and take a step back!

Peckerman did a great job overall getting Argentina where he did, showing great, aggressive, clean football. This is a far cry from other individually equally or even more tallented Argentine teams of recent times but managed quite poorly. With respect to today's sub, it is always easy to criticize after the fact, but at the time it was reasonable to replace one taller and experience striker for another rather than to bet on one very talented but also very inexperienced player. Had Messi flopped (he only really shined against Serbia), Peckerman would be criticized for betting it all on Messi. Granted, this was not Peckerman's best match and, besides, in a very levelled match, the refereeing was partial to Germany after the first goal - although the ref was careful to avoid any gross mistakes. But let's not judge a coach on one substitution.

It is tough to be Argentina's coach and losing to Germany in Berlin in penalty kicks is not a bad result. For my part, well done Argentina and well done Peckerman. Hope to see more of you as Argentina's coach or anywhere else.
Posted: 6:54 PM   by Anonymous
Well, it was a great game, more tactics than creative. But when two teams rather equal meet, they usually neutralize themselves. being a coach myself, sure Pekerman made a mistake with taking out Riquelme, but Messi? Yes, a great talent, but it was visible before, this type of player does not fit in the Pekerman-scheme, playing way to often for himself, same as with Barcelona, who also just uses him as wildcard, not a starter. Having said both teams were equal, one team was the lucky one, this time the Germans.
What really left a bad impression that after the last penalty one Argentine defender was so upset to hurt a German player in the leg and subsequently got an after-the-game-red card. What a shame.
Reminded one on the ridiculous Portugal-Holland game. My 15 year boys see these thing and believe that is right and than we have to spend always half of the trainingssession to remind of the essential what us drives: The love of the game, not the revenge!
Posted: 6:55 PM   by Anonymous
It is odd that Argentina is lambasted for their well known diving and hard fouls while Germany is given a pass for the exact same behavior. I guess Europeans always like to pretend they are more "civilized" though their behavior speaks volumes. Protecting the lead may seem stupid to those of you who know little about football, but I know all the remainging coaches, even Klinsman, would have done the same. At this stage, a 1x0 victory is more than acceptable. As a Brasilian, I have no love for Argentina and I would have loved a South American final. I know, I know, Brasil has to make it to the final first! If we do, I hope it is against Germany and I hope we make them cry at home like Uruguay did to us in 1950. We will see then if you wiener-schnitzels will make fun of your crying Germans, collapsed in tears on the field. I mean, the few actual German players in the team. Poles, French, Ghanians; are there no Germans left in Germany?
Posted: 6:58 PM   by Anonymous
I don't like argentina neither Maradona.
Go home..
Maybe in the next WC..
Posted: 7:00 PM   by Anonymous
I think it was a good match after the first 15 minutes. It was very tactical and both teams played well. What I really can't understand are comments of Argentina fans who say that the ref made bad calls. He did a good job. The yellow card for diving was absolutly correct, and I'm saying this from a neutreal dutch position where I usually should have some rivalary towards Germany.

By the way, Klinsmann also had to sub Klose, who had a small injury after the impact with the Argentinian keeper.

I'm looking forward to see the next games, this world cup has been great so far. (Although I'd love to see the Netherlands playing versus England)
Posted: 7:02 PM   by Anonymous
People, let's face it, since it's always the same: everbody is wondering why, but the Germans advance... Cannot be just luck but also a certain amount of quality!
Posted: 7:02 PM   by Anonymous
The referee did not count an offense favoring Argentina, that was a penalty. TV Only repeated once this, showing clearly that the offense existed.
Shame on the Host.
Posted: 7:03 PM   by F.Lo
There's one thing worse than refs' mistakes during this World Cup, It's the coaching. Pekerman not using Messi,Van Basten forgetting Van Nistelrooy on the bench,Aragones not using Iniesta,Parreira choosing the ghost of Adriano over Robinho.. Those are no brainer! Except for Klinsi,coaching has been terrible.
Posted: 7:03 PM   by Anonymous
This was a great game today, and Germany deserved to win. Argentina is a great team, but they play too beautiful and not effective enough. Stop the whining guys, this is futbol, football, Fussball what ever you want to call it. It is always the sorriest excuse, to blame the ref. The german team is growing with each game, and they show that they are a real team. Not primadonnas like others. The behavior of the argentinian players after the pk`s was just poor sportsmanship. Go Germany!!!!!
We are already Pope, so go for the CUP now!!!!!!
Posted: 7:05 PM   by Anonymous
This was the game of the few chances. I'm asking Argentina and "others": where is the magic? Where is the great combination game? Where is the great coaching?Where is the kill?

Well, Germany is still very much alive and didn't play less attractive Fussball than Argentina and "others".

And one saw today also, Italy is beatable. I think there is no reason do underestimate the Mannschaft especially when they are playing in the house.
Posted: 7:05 PM   by Anonymous
Our Holland Coach Van Basten made the biggest mistake already before the World Cup. He Leaves our best striker at home. his name: Klaas Jan Huntelaar!

33 goals!! in the Dutch League!
Posted: 7:08 PM   by Anonymous
I'm glad Germany won this match. Yet by any objective measure, Argentina was the more talented side. Not 'better'..the better team wins or finds a way to win. As Germany did today in Berlin.

I think this was pretty even overall, but I agree that Messi probably would have made a world of difference. Both teams were pretty exhausted at the end but it was obvious Argentina was playing for the shoot out, hanging by a shred.
Messi would have ran around like a jack rabbit and cause d the tired Germans all sorts of fits.
Pekerman screwed up. As for Germany though, maybe they were up aganist a hell of a team but they can't always do this slow up and wait for help routine. Why give the defense a chance to get back?? Lahm, Ballack, Podolski had numerous chances to go right at goal and slowed up waiting for help that never came through.
Argentina had 3 or 4 really good chances. 1 goal. Not gonna do it at this stage. PK shootouts are really about a bit of luck. It was Lehmann's day.
will this continue?

Italy ill be another tough match.
Posted: 7:09 PM   by Anonymous
Hamburg - Germany
Messi has his own poster at a hotel wall:
http://www.lacalle-online.com/fotos/messi110606.jpg
Posted: 7:10 PM   by Anonymous
Such a shame seeing Argentina loose the way they did. If Brazil also goes, I will switch off the TV.
Posted: 7:11 PM   by Anonymous
Aimar and Messi left on the bench. Incredible. Pekerman, you really hurt yourself and your country.
Posted: 7:11 PM   by Anonymous
I wrote in an earlier post before this match that Argentina would need to bring their 'A' game to beat Germany, and I explicitly stated that that would include starting Messi. Why he was not sent onto the pitch at all is going to be the stuff of enduring mystery. Argentina still outplayed Germany, especially through the first half, when the Germans looked like they did not care about winning. That was bizarre. In that same post I said that if they won the quarters they were going to the finals, but they will need to play much much better to beat Italy...and frankly, Italy looks much more likely to beat Brazil (if they make it past France) or France (if they don't). England will certainly not make it past Portugal, and the semifinals will be as far as Portugal goes. And this game (Germany/Argentina) WAS NOT A GREAT GAME. There was very little music or magic, no rhythm, no flow, no swing. The only good thing about it, from my biased point of view, is that Germany advances. No tears for Argentina.
Posted: 7:11 PM   by Anonymous
what makes you German fans think your gonna beat run over Italy. Last time the teams met i seem to remember Italy winning 4-1. Yes the home field has been flopped, but it will be a very dificult game for both teams.

Never count the Italian out in any game. They just dont let up goals and theyll be in any game they play till the end.
Posted: 7:12 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerman did blow it for Argentina. But you have to give Germany credit for hanging in there when things started looking bleak.

Messi should have came on a sub. Decisions decisions.
Germany was a bit lucky to win an even match. a little luck will help you win a world cup just as much as talent. Still saw players selling their flops a bit too much. More from the Argies though.

Entertaining game. Klinsman was right all along about Lehmann over Kahn, wasn't he?
Wow. Jurgen's a genius!
Posted: 7:12 PM   by Anonymous
The game was disapointing. Neither team looked like a world champion. Few good combos, few dangerous actions, and many bad passes. And they both played it safe during overtime.

I am happy for the German fans that their team won. But next to the 98 French team and the 02 Brazilain team, they suck.
Posted: 7:17 PM   by Anonymous
First of all, I would argue that Argentina was playing with only 10 men as long as Crespo was on the field... He did NOTHING!!! He couldn't control the ball and was a total detriment to the team from the outset. Then, they needed ball possesion badly in the final 20 minutes when they knew they'de be receiving an onslot of attacks to rival the Blitzkrieg. That's where Messi could have made the difference. By holding possession, the defense could have time to regroup. I mean, that's Argentina's game!!! How long can you continue to hand the ball over to a world class team like Germany without getting burned. Of course Germany deserves credit, but Pekerman's senior moment opened the door to Germany's victory.
Posted: 7:18 PM   by Anonymous
Hey guys. The Germans did a good job! Both teams played at a very high level. It was the best game of the whole tournament. During the first half of the match both teams prevented the other team to become dangerous. Jens Lehmann did not have to keep any precarious ball during the first 45 minutes. Maybe the choice not to bring in Messi was a big mistake, but I think the Germans won rightly.
I am looking forward to seeing the match Germany vs. Italy.
Posted: 7:18 PM   by Anonymous
Re: Germany being a "lucky" team:
3 world cup titles, 5 times runnersup, 11 trips to the semifinal round, plus 3 European UEFA cup championships and 60+ world cup victories and counting...that is an incredible run of luck! And the only team to win all of their PK matches in WC history without a defeat.....just lucky I guess
Posted: 7:19 PM   by Americano in Brazil
Germany cannot win this tournament. They would have to beat:

Germany
Italy &
Brazil (probably)

If this was a round robin group at the beginning of the World Cup, Germany would be able to 1, maybe 2, but certainly not all 3. Too bad, because they have a good squad. Bad draw!
Posted: 7:19 PM   by Anonymous
Good match but Argentina lost the advantage in the air long before the game went all even. Once that happened, the outcome could only favor Germany. Argentina was lucky to send it to PKs at that point. Only Germany's lack of physical endurance was the key point then. PKs won by Lehmann's luck. Lord knows, Argentina's Penalty kicks were horrible.
Posted: 7:25 PM   by Anonymous
Coach Screwed This Match Up!!!!!
Posted: 7:26 PM   by Anonymous
I do believe he didn´t make the
right decision, since mexico game, Mexico was quite better than Argentina, but an exceptional move make the difference. And now with Germany, the game was more even, but leaving Messi in the bench, would make all of us think things could be different.
Posted: 7:26 PM   by Anonymous
Not only the best match on the world cup, but the best match we have seen in ages. This shows wat soccer is all about and truly, this is the kind of soccer we expect at the World Cup final when the other two giants of soccer meet: Brazil and Germany. Go Brazil!!!
Posted: 7:27 PM   by Anonymous
I AM GLAD ARGENTINA LOSS LETS SHEER FOR GERMANY
Posted: 7:27 PM   by Anonymous
It is a great shame that the best team, the one with the most talent of the world cup was eliminated. I agree with everyone, not starting Messi was a great mistake. I feel that this game would have had a very different outcome had he played. There could have been another goal in regular time and would have given ARgentina the victory. It is true that Messi is young, but his talent is outstanding and deserved to have started in this most important game for the ARgentinians.
Posted: 7:28 PM   by Anonymous
I think it was a really nice game and I think it´s really stupid to blame the German´s win on the ref´s decisions! I think he did his job very well in a pretty aggressive game and I couldn´t see him favouring the Germans at all! As the game went (especially after the 1-1) the Argentines committed more and more fouls, because they were getting desperate. And even if the ref was favouring the Germans, you can´t blame the players, it´s not their fault either (and as if your team wouldn´t do the same).
I can´t understand why some of you can´t acknowledge the performance of the German squad. You always seem to find different reasons to justify their wins. Sometimes it´s the weather or the ref or the home crowd, you always find something. They did really well against the favoured team and at the end they deserved their win. It always sucks when you go out on penalties, but clearly the Germans were better and therefore deserved their win.
But I do think that the game could have ended totally different if Pekerman didn´t do some stupid substitutions and their goalkeeper weren´t hurt, but that´s life. Argentina did a really good game though and I´m sad that they´re out.
But I think the Germans deserved their win and I also can´t understand why some of you think that Italy is going to kick them out, because Italy is playing really poorly right now and I´m pretty sure that the Germans are going to kick them out…
Posted: 7:28 PM   by Anonymous
As a typical Brazilian, I say: Argentina, GO HOME!
Posted: 7:29 PM   by NARDI
GERMANS THE BEST TEAM IN THE WORLD.
GERMANY CHAMPION FOR 2006
Posted: 7:30 PM   by Anonymous
The most disappointing team of the championship is Brazil. The match versus Ghana was soo boring! I hope they will show us more of their "artificial way of playing soccer" in the match against France.
Posted: 7:30 PM   by Anonymous
Germany looked horrible out there and will lose to Italy. Guaranteed.
Posted: 7:32 PM   by Anonymous
u may not know something... Jose have been with this boys since the junior world cups, he knew them very well. and I as an Argentina fan, am not ashamed of the changes he did. Messi is a very good player, but not an 90`player. All of you are talking from outside the bench. Pekerman vas the one there. and he did what he considered best. if this did not work out, nothing could have worked. We had the best football of the tournament. Penalty kicks are directed by chance. Jose choose Cruz, because in the Inter, almost all sundays, he comes in for 15 minutes and score. he is much more experienced than Messi.

And this was the only way we could be out of the way to the cup, by penalty kicks. We were never defeated, 3 times tie, with in my opinion, the best keeper of the WC.
I hope that Pato Abbondanzieri recovers as soon as posible.
Posted: 7:33 PM   by Anonymous
I expect a lot of sore loosers for this one...but three things...

1) Please don't complain about the refs, this was probably the best officiated game of the world cup.

2) Please don't call anyone with a different opinion than you an idiot or an ignorant american just because they don't agree with you, it completely makes you look ignorant and totally invalidates anything you say...enough is enough

3) Please just accept the game for what it was! Probably the best played game of the tournament!

I'l admit that Im a Germany fan, but either team deserved to walk away with this one. Everyone has been saying that whichever team came away from this game with a win from this game will probably end up in the finals and I think we saw today that that is probably true.

But can someone please accept that Germany is a team to be reckoned with this tournament? Or are we going to continue blaming the other team for being "weak" and saying Germany was handed the win? I think a tad bit of credit is due, as the German-bund has been the most ripped on team thus far.

As said before though, excellent play by the Argentines, they certainly deserved to continue as much as anyother team, the ball just rolled the hosts way today. GREAT game!

-erik
Posted: 7:34 PM   by Anonymous
Another pathetic display from Argentina after the match, the same like after the 1990 final- what a bunch of sore losers! Quite frankly, it's no surprise that everybody hates them. Good riddance!
Posted: 7:34 PM   by Anonymous
It's easy to blame Pekerman for keeping Messi on the bench, but Crespo, Tevez, and Riquelme didn't create much for offense. Some of the blame must fall on their shoulders for not putting together good scoring chances in the first half when Argentina dominated possesion.
Ayala had a great goal and it was sad to see them go out without much of a fight, but you have to applaud the Germans for coming back and fighting for the win.
Posted: 7:34 PM   by Anonymous
Some of the comments here fill me with wry amusement. How painful it must be, at least for certain people, to see Germany win. Excuses and explanations have to be found. "They're only playing against weak opponents!" Too bad, since it obviously doesn't apply to Argentina. "It's the weather / heat!" Temperatures were pretty mild in Berlin today. "The damn Krauts bribed the referee!" Sorry, but I didn't see anything particularly wrong with the referee decisions today. Both teams did their share of tricks and dives, which are a part of professional football today, but to say that one or the other were "obviously" favoured is nonsense. "The Argentinian coach lost it for them!" I remain unconvinced that Messi would have somehow single-handedly won against a very solid German team. "The Germans were just lucky!" Well, maybe, but luck is a part of every sport, isn't it?

The truth is that Germany won because they simply played better today, and that they pushed the much-touted Argentinians out of the tournament on merit. Argentina may be a more talented team, man for man, but it is the Germans who understand the meaning of team spirit - operating as a group. Argentina may have more potential, but they didn't tap into it today, while the Germans fully used what potential they had - they always do. Argentina thought they were home free and tried to play it safe after they got into the lead, but it was the Germans who demonstrated guts and willpower and came back to turn it around.

And that is what the naysayers, who are proven wrong time after time, grudgingly amazed by the German success, will never understand. That football is not all about fancy stars and beautiful showmanship, but rather a sport were team spirit, efficiency and the will to keep fighting seperates the men from the boys.

Those who predict that Germany will be "found out" by Italy will be proven wrong again. It's the pundits and the self-proclaimed experts who are being found out, like all the know-it-alls who were confident of Argentina winning today.
Posted: 7:35 PM   by Anonymous
I hope Germany will win the cup, because the Germans are only in soccer national and proud of their nationality. Maybe it will bring a thrust trough german economy and policy
Posted: 7:37 PM   by Clyde (the Glide)
Let's not forget that Mexico could have beaten Artentina and the Netherlands tied Argentina.

Today's match featured the 2nd and 3rd best teams in the tournament (in my opinion) and it was a very close game. Ballack had the best scoring chance of the game and missed a wide open header in the 16th minute. After Argentina scored, Germany woke up and played more aggressively. Argentina was quicker than Germany early in the game, but they became passive and Germany gained control. The referee was fine. He didn't decide the outcome.

I was in Germany last week and I enjoyed hearing the Argentina fans singing their songs and having a lot of fun. They are great fans. I don't know what happened at the end, but I wouldn't read too much into it.

It was an even game and someone had to lose. Germany had the better goalie.

Messi might have tried to do too much and not had a good game. Podolski is 21, older than Messi, and he was too pumped up to play his normal game.

Germany will clobber Italy. The Italians will be the dessert before the finals. Cheaters never prosper ... and "floppers" don't make it to the finals.
Posted: 7:38 PM   by Anonymous
Argentine played better and their attack is their best defence. So after 80th minute argentine couch should have replaced more attacking players insted of just bringing on some defensive players. Messi and Aimar were the best choices for replacing Crespo and Riquelme.
Posted: 7:38 PM   by Anonymous
Hats off to the German team for bearing down when they had to. Good game all around. Many missed opportunities from both sides. Coaching mistakes, bad substitutions, bad calls.. whatever for the Argentines. The game was played and the players can walk with their heads held high. 2010 here we come. Vive Argentina.
Posted: 7:48 PM   by Anonymous
BTW, I wonder how many Argentine fans once were making fun of US and other teams for complaining about the refs, and now are whining (about excellent officiating) hmm...

My ultimate question is WHY can't a single game in this tournament be accepted as "Wow, that was a great game"... instead everyone mocks and jeers other teams until their team looses, then they pick up the violin, and WHINE.

-erik (again)
Posted: 7:49 PM   by Anonymous
Great refereeing? That guy probably owns a summer home in Germany now!!!!!! But that being said Pekermans coaching in this game was terrible. Oh well look forward to 2010.
Posted: 7:50 PM   by Anonymous
best game of the tournament? how soon do we forget Mexico vs. Argentina. Refereeing was not great, it just did not decided the outcome, which is as good as it gets in this world cup!
Posted: 7:50 PM   by Anonymous
Did Wahl even watch this match? Cruz was a defensive replacement put in before Germany scored their equalizer. Cruz is Peckerman's biggest, most physical and defensive minded forward. Peckerman is only guilty of gambling that his team could hold off Germany for the last 10 minutes of the game. Considering how Germany was playing it wasn't a bad gamble. But putting in Messi was never an option as long as Argentina was leading and controlling possession. When will American soccer coverage get the knowledge and sophistication that it surely needs and deserves?
Posted: 7:50 PM   by Anonymous
I firmly believed that Argentina were playing the best football of all teams leading up to this game. They just happened to be outcoached and that is ashame. That being said, one must give credit to Germany for never quitting until the final whistle was blown. I never felt that Argentina would win the shootout and they should have played for the win in overtime, not the shootout. One fact remains and is unfortunate, especially for the kids watching. The Argentinians showed their true colors after the game by brawling and letting their typical blame it on someone else approach. They have no one to blame but themselves. For a while I was very much appreciating the change in Argentinian style which over the years has been to fall down on every touch and get in the referees face after every call against them. Unfortunately the post game attitude brought the Argentinian culture back in my opinion unnecessarily. With Madonna at the helm moving forward, I regret that we will now again see the Argentinian attitude come back - this will not be healthy for international play.
Posted: 7:51 PM   by Anonymous
Obviously he made a mistake but at the time he wanted to preserve the 1-0 advantage so he took requelme, who hadn't been playing very well anyway out of the game, for a more defensive minded player in cambioso. He took crespo and replaced him with a big target to stay high since it seemed they were going to try to pack it in against the Germans for the last 20 minutes and hold on for the win. I don't think at that point he wanted to bring in someone as inexperienced as Messi, who would stand little chance winning balls as a lone forward, and might make crucial mistakes losing the ball trying to take on players in the wrong situations
Posted: 7:54 PM   by Anonymous
For the record: I'm German.

I don't understand, why so many people devalue the German team. I totally agree, that Argentina played VERY fine soccer in the beginning of the tournament. And I even agree, that most Players of the Argentine team are better on a 1 on 1 comparison with a German Player, which maybe important for any soccer club. But that doesn't matter in a World Cup.

Yes, Argentina had an extremely high ball posession in the first half. It's very strange though, that both teams have an almost equal shots statistic (Germany has even more shots on goal).

When it comes to the coaches: I don't know how bad the decisions of Pekerman were, but the ones of Klinsmann felt chosen wisely. When Odonkhor entered the game, there was new power on the German team that turned the gameplay. Borowski also was a clever pick as he freshend up the midfield, what was extremely necessary. Someone stated it was questionable to remove Klose from the field. Actually that happened in every game and seems to be an endurance-issue. The only problem was, that he couldn't exchange Ballack, when he had a cramp in overtime.

Argentina had its very dominating moments, but even then they were not so extremely dangerous near to the goal as you expect from a team calling itself "the best team in the world". I don't think, the Germans are the best team in the world. However they have a very good chance to win the Cup.

For this single game I have noticed several things, that justify the German win:
1. Both goals in regular time were really great teamwork. Both teams showed the skill, that an overtime was legitime.
2. Argentina seemed to be extremely exhausted in the second half. This even became worse in overtime (except for the very last minutes, when they feared PKs)
3. There have been very few goaling chances for Argentina - even though they clearly dominated the midfield. I don't say that there have been much more for Germany, but this showed, we were in for a draw. So it had to be penalty kickout.
4. The two Manns were the men of the match. Klinsmann: Right decisions at the right time. You were able to see the changes. Lehmann: Saved 2 penalty shots and none of them was an easy shot. This has to be mentioned. Every coach knows that a German team has been extremely strong in penalty shootout ever since. I really can't understand, that Argentina played as it wanted to reach the penalties.
5. There have been some very unsporty scenes after the game...


For those who still claim, Germany only wins with a load of luck on its shoulders:
Skill is luck becoming a habit ;o)
Posted: 7:55 PM   by Anonymous
How often does a goalie have to be substituted due to injury? This robbed Argentina of one spot that very well might have been used for Messi. Argentina did seem to have quite a bit of chances in extra time, and maybe the coach was concerned about Messi just coming out of long layoff from injury. There were a lot of doubts about Germany after they got trounced by Italy a few months ago, but if you look at past history, home teams almost always do well in the World Cup.
Posted: 7:55 PM   by Anonymous
Now that all experts know the reasons, why Argentina lost but sure is the better team, let's think of the comments, if Klose's header would have missed the goal by an inch:
- Pekerman would be the father of the victory, because of his defensive tactics after the lead
- Ballak would be blamed in comparison to Riquelme
- Klinsman would resign but would be treated with respect by the media
- most Germans would support Argentina on its next step to the final
- Germany would accept the role as a fair looser and woul continue in the role as a great host for this tournament
Posted: 8:00 PM   by Anonymous
Questioning the tactics of Pekerman is nothing short of ridiculous. His strategy in the first half took Germany out of its pressure offense. Argentina's passing was crisp and its play was fluid. Had Coloccini's shot curled under the crossbar nobody would be questioning his tactics.

Pekerman put a great team together. At the end of the day, it's up to players to execute on the field. He certainly isn't the one that missed two penalties. The man is class act. Wish I could say as much about some of the posters.
Posted: 8:03 PM   by Anonymous
One moment please ... Is it just (South-)American that you only see referees as the main cause for winning and losing. Nobody was sent off, no real penalty situation the referee had to decide ... than why the hell did argentina loose cause of the referee??? And can someone count the number of chances for argentina. Before the goal coming out of nowhere there were null. And that dear friends against a weak defence ... But sorry, the Italian defence was really strong today against a world-class ukraine (ukraine should have at least scored the tie right after the break).

And one word to loosing - never saw someone in bruce-lee-style hitting the jewels of mertesacker. Great sportmanship, or???
Posted: 8:03 PM   by Soccer Guru Face
This is a replay of four years ago when Germany beat the US. The winning side was totally outplayed but got a little luck and some officiating in their favor. Argentina contolled and moved the ball better than any team I've seen in this World Cup. It is sad that one of the top 2 teams (along with Brazil) will not be in the final.
Posted: 8:04 PM   by Anonymous
That definitely should have been a PK for Argentina toward the end!!!!
Posted: 8:04 PM   by Manu - Muri - Andi - Mati
4 comments:
- Pekerman: Great Coach
- Argentina: Great Team
- Referee: Great salary paid by germany
- Germany: Great country, poor football

That's all that can be said about the match
Posted: 8:05 PM   by Anonymous
I think you're losing the point. Germany may play a well structured football, which is not everyone's favourite, but it has proven successful in this tournament.

Klinsmann did a great job to bring this team as far as they have come. And had to deal with a lot of stress by the Germans themself.

Anyway, I think the referee did a great job and that he wasn't to pro-Germany. In fact, three of Germans most important players have seen the yellow card and have to watch out in the semi-finals.

Last but not least a very sad point about the whole story. After the match the team of Argentina proved to be bad losers in a very disturbing way. While the german team was celebrating their victory on the field (cameras still on), some players attacked german players as well as the german team manager. Although the game was over, Michel had to give a red card. No matter what happened during the game or how disappointed a strong team might be - this doesn't belong to a world cup!
Posted: 8:06 PM   by Anonymous
Germany made their PKs. Argentina did not.
Simple.
Posted: 8:07 PM   by Anonymous
Germany might never have the quality as Argentina in the long run. Or as Spain has. Or Italy. We've seen how Argentina controlled the match most of the time.
But who cares.
This is not the long run. It's a tournament and few teams are as adept as Germany to make their way through finals.
Now that Germany also plays interesting football they even deserve it.
Posted: 8:09 PM   by Anonymous
It doesn't matter. Brazil will win it ALL!!!

ONLY 5 TIMES WORLD CHAMP GOING STRONG FOR THE SIXTH TITLE!
Posted: 8:09 PM   by Anonymous
I think there was way to much hype and not enough guts the better team won.
Posted: 8:10 PM   by Anonymous
A taste of their own medicine? I guess Argentinians are feeling pretty much like Mexicans felt last Sunday, played better but came out sour.

By the way coaching is only 10% of the game...looks like Pekerman talked to Lavolpe proves my theory that Argentina there was somehow rigged.
Posted: 8:11 PM   by Anonymous
I agree with what seems to be most of the folks here that Deutschland hasn't played that great of a game since the beginning. They do seem to be picking it up a bit each game but they are going to need more than just showing up and kicking a ball around to beat the Italians...unless of course Italy shows up and plays as they did against the USA. If that be the case, the Volks of Deutschland will continue to have another reason to drink another beer, shoot off some more fireworks and display a pride in their country many say hasn't been seen since pre-ww2. Personally, I'd like to see them get their butts kicked in a final against either England.

It has been interesting and fun to watch from the home turf of Deutschland but....

May the hangover for the home team begin!
Posted: 8:12 PM   by Anonymous
Unfortunateley the referee was against the german team, but they had too much heart to give up !! Go Germany, you might become world champion !!
Posted: 8:13 PM   by Anonymous
Have to say this was the best match of the tournament, refereeing was great - game was controlled yet free flowing at the same time and I haven't seen a match like that since I last saw Collina ref. Spot on that Klinsmann out coached him too, what was Pekerman thining bringing on Cruz? Lionel Messi is a once in a lifetime talent and can you imagine the force he'd have wreaked coming on in the 85th minute or so? If the game went on as it did that's 30+ minutes that the fresh, rested, wunderkid has to run rings around the obviously tiring Germans. Messi also would have been an almost guaranteed penalty - the kid just doesn't feel pressure as shown by his play at Barca.

Argentina let this get away from them, but beautiful play by the Germans too.
Posted: 8:15 PM   by Anonymous
by the way, i'll never understand why americans think that american "football" is more interesting than football.
actually many americans i've heard so far say that football is boring. i don't understand that.

american football is a game that might have interesting tactics, but in the end is a very static game as it is interrupted every 30 seconds.

how come they find it more exciting than normal football, a game that might appear static but only if 2 teams know to block each other?
Posted: 8:20 PM   by Anonymous
I am suprised not to have read on this notes that no one mmentioned the disastrous job of the referee!!! i am half German and Half Argentinian, today i am ashamed of half German part! how come everytime argentina was on germany´s area there was a fault in attack, how many faults did they make againts argentina that where not seen........... horrible, absolutely horrible!
Posted: 8:22 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerman is the reason why Argentina lost today. He tried to sit on a 1 - 0 lead for remaining 40 minutes of the 2nd half and allowed Germany to attack and build confidence. He purposely didn't bring in Messi because he thought he was going to be a defensive liability. The cowardness and wanting to sit on a lead with so much time left had alot of Argentines in tears because they don't deserve what Pekerman dealt them not only his players but the country of Argentina and its fans. Pekerman should be ashamed.
Posted: 8:24 PM   by Anonymous
RE: the pro-German refs...

Being from Canada, all I can say is, "Suck it up and stop whining! Argentina, you beat yourselves."

Rodriguez was yellow-carded for his play acting. Good on Michel for seeing through their cheap tactics. Come on, call a spade a spade.

If Argentina would have only concentrated on playing soccer instead of swan-diving and looking for the cheap way out (like Italy did with Australia), they may have won the match.

Argentina panicked and lost their composure. THAT cost them the game. Not the refs.

later
Posted: 8:31 PM   by Anonymous
It is not not not just CRUZ it is the subing of Riquelme that ruined the Argentinan side.Keeping even a tired Requelme would have kept the Germen midfielders from adventuring in to the Agentinan side of the field.Klins by bringing Onkoro gave the germens the speed and the attack on the flank and at the same time kept Sorin to remain in his half of the pitch.So Pek blew it and he needs to pay for the blunder.
Posted: 8:36 PM   by Anonymous
Grant Wahl is who? Oh yeah, he is a writer, not a coach. Maybe there is some reason behind that. Pleas Mr. Wahl, never second guess decisions that you are not a part of. Agrentina played very well and just barely missed out. They have nothing to be ashamed of. Leaving history up to a 19 year old (substitute that never happened) might have worked well but then again, who knows. That is why coaches coach and writers should stick to reporting, not "soothsaying".
Posted: 8:36 PM   by Anonymous
Why shouldn't Germany be proud of today? What a bunch of bitter losers are writing here?

They won. They won 3 Worldcups, and 3 European Cups. This always on luck? They just have the will to win, this is all. You can force your luck, they did.

Argentina is great in winning, but what sore losers they are. I didn't expect this. Disgraceful this is.

True winners are winning, Argentina didn't win. period.
Posted: 8:38 PM   by Anonymous
Agree that Pekerman made a mess of things - but take note nobody, but nobody beats Germany in penalty shoot outs. Argentina, to go through, had to win in full playing time
Posted: 8:41 PM   by Anonymous
The referee was good. Was it dive of Cruz at the end of regulation? Yes, Lahm clearly pulled back his leg and the Argentinian player still started diving. However, Ballack also deserved a yellow card for his acting. If anyone wants to make a point saying that the refereeing favored Germany, that's all you can give here. Does this influence the outcome? Probably not.
In my opinion both teams were about equal today.
Argentina has more talent, yes, but Germany had more will. But please, don't trash the Germans for that (especially when you hailed the US of playing their heart out against Italy before). Only talent doesn't win games, it's only part of being able to win a game.
Posted: 8:42 PM   by Anonymous
Have you seen the JOGATV ad with the donkeys? That's how this game was played. Hee-haww!
Posted: 8:42 PM   by Fussballer
Some say "Argentina will always remain a better team than Germany" - but what did Argentinia do better in this game? Nothing. Finally they lost.
Posted: 8:43 PM   by Anonymous
Argentina controlled the ball most of the time, but only in MIDFIELD. Sorry, but all the controlling doesn't help and isn't an indicator that you played better if you are not able to create chances from all the possesion.
Pekerman played too defensively at the end of regulation and invited the Germans to tie the game by that.
Posted: 8:44 PM   by Anonymous
"Beware Azzurri! Remember Germany are playing with 12 players...and i don't mean the fans...i mean they'll probably get another "Good" referee! ha...
Hopefully the better team will prevail this time! Let's go Azzurri!"

Maby Italy bring their own ref from Australia vs Italy. If all things were right Italy didn't even play today. ;)
Posted: 8:46 PM   by Imran Ahmed
Long after this World Cup is over the deabte will continue, should Messi have come on and if so when.

I however feel any team leading 1-0 and playing eyeball-to-eyeball with the hsot nation should not have allowed the tying goal under any circumstances.

Did anyone feel the German players got away with some rough stuff and play acting the ref seemed to be too lenient with them?
Posted: 8:46 PM   by Anonymous
I have seen every World Cup since Mexico 1970. At this level, all teams are equally good, as we saw in the Argentina-Germany match today. I predict that all remaining games will be very close, and that most will be decided by penalty kicks. That's why I've always enjoyed the opening rounds the most---you see real soccer, not scared and conservative teams.
Posted: 8:47 PM   by Anonymous
the host team has to get so far in the tournament so the argentines had to lose. look to peckerman, the goalies, and the terrible penalty kick misses and there's your conspiracy theory. when the stakes are high, games are fixed, outcomes predetermined. just like in politics. beautiful goal by the germans, though.
Posted: 8:52 PM   by Samuel
It was a good game, no more, but far away to be the best game WC 2006. I can not understand why good teams wining 1-0 give up attacking for 2-0. A pity it is the Argentina style (same as Italy). Germany, Brazil (and England) NEVER give up attacking. Messi? I can't believe he did not play !!!!
Posted: 8:54 PM   by Anonymous
You neglect to take into consideration the one thing that really changed the tide of the game. Argentina lost their #1 keeper early in the game. That put Argentina in the horrendous situation of using a keeper that has very little Cup experience. Though the backup did a decent job throughout the majority of the game, he just cracked under pressure during the penalty shootout. You cannot blame that on Pekerman for not playing Lionel Messi. Albiet, Messi could have had some sort of impact, but still, his impact would have been offset by the inexperienced keeper. Unfortunately for Pekerman, he is going to be blamed for an injury he had nothing to do with, and for a decision he did not have to make.
Posted: 8:57 PM   by Anonymous
i like cruz. he brings poise and concentration to the offense. he set up a couple nice plays but the rest of the team was exhausted by the time he came in. blaming the loss on passing up messi for cruz is facile and baseless. pekerman's true error was his decision to spend an eternity defending a thin lead that he was lucky to have. the german goal was a lot prettier. it was a crummy game overall. the best game thus far has been france-spain. i also like argentina-mexico and usa-italy.
Posted: 9:00 PM   by Anonymous
As an Argentine fan, this was a very difficult game to watch. I defended Pekerman earlier on the tournament, but he really messed this up. I kept thinking where's Messi ? Where is Saviola ? What about Crespo ? By the 80th minute I was screaming it.

Losing Abbondanzieri was terrible luck-I think he would have caught some of those PKs.

Argentina deserved to win. Germany played just well enough.
Posted: 9:01 PM   by Anonymous
yes i must admit the argentina coach was a fool and it cost them dearly but hey germans are the host and hey they face my team next go italy muahahaha
Posted: 9:02 PM   by Anonymous
from germany:
I know and everybody in germany knows that argentina has theoretically the best players in the world. but come on. i did not see a lot of chances of argentinia, neither did i see from germany. it was a game that could get easily in one way or the other. in such games you need some luck, ok, but please admit that victory was deserved. germany never gave up, while argentina retreated to the own box. i was really scared during the first half, but if you retreat after scoring 1:0 you deserve to lose.
teamspirit won over individual class. please be fair sportsmen, accept defeat and seek for revanche next time, i´m really looking forward to this.
PS: referee is a lame excuse without grave mistakes like offside goals or wrong red cards.
Posted: 9:04 PM   by martica
I watched the Germany and Argentina game and wondered why when a team looses their fans including newscaster try to find fault with winning team players etc...True Pekerman made a bad decision but you have to admit Germany is an excellent team otherwise they wouldn't be where they are now so far. So loosing teams stop being sore loosers....after all there is 2010. Keep it up Germany....
Posted: 9:11 PM   by Anonymous
To the person that wrote "Why does it seem that everyone hates the Germans", well I know its kinda strange, but the world still holds on to the fact that Germany started WW1 and WW2, and being unable to forget that, they still hate the Germans in everything (except for BMWs, Porsche and Mercedes).

And to the ignoramus that is touting American Football, is it so hard to believe that your precious American sport is a long second fiddle to the World's most beloved sport ? I hate to tell you this, but there is a large world outside the US borders !!!

But you will be glad to know that the US team made it all the way to Berlin 61 years ago !!!
Posted: 9:13 PM   by Anonymous
What a game. Klinsi out smarted Pekerman with the subs. Even I, as a German fan was surprized by the inclusion of Cruz instead of Messi. Or even Saviola. But hey, the Germans won. And that's what counts.
Posted: 9:14 PM   by Anonymous
I think the Dutch should have included Patrick Kluivert and Edgar Davids. They were tireless workhorses and could have made a big difference !!!!
Posted: 9:14 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerman's sub decisions were only half blunder and half misfortune given the injury of the goalkeeper. If not for this, he would have had an option of letting one of his stellar subs play. That's one thing. Another thing, there WAS a penalty two minutes before time. Still no excuse for Argentina - they did not create enough chances, they had to rely on defender for goal scoring for God sake, they tried to control possession and dry up the game, they played pretty much... uh, Brazilian...
Posted: 9:16 PM   by An American in Argentina
The referreeing was pitiful and quite in favor of Germany. But lets be honest none the less - Messi needed to come in - not Cruz - I realize the height issue BUT I think raw game changing TALENT can't stay on the bench.
Hopefully BIANCHI will be the next DT for Argentina.
Certainly the best team is going home too soon.
Posted: 9:18 PM   by Anonymous
in reponse to the guy who's saying real football in september.We're talking about real sport here not some nonesense wrestling.
Posted: 9:22 PM   by Anonymous
ARGENTINA ES EL MEJOR EQUIPO DEL MUNDO!!!

CHUCU
Posted: 9:26 PM   by Anonymous
To all you guys who say that Germany will never be a team as good as Argentina:

We have made it to a total of 7 World Cup finals and won 3 of them.

But I guess we were just lucky the whole time....get real.

Today Argentina controlled most of the game during the first half but while they kept the ball they had a grand total of ZERO actual scoring chances. That's not exactly dominating either.

And the referee? He made a few mistakes, but he made them on both sides. I always respected the Argentinian team because of their attractive style of play, however seeing what kind of pathetic loosers they and their fans are I am more than happy to have seen the last of them in this World Cup.
Posted: 9:27 PM   by Anonymous
After Germany was forced to make their forward-pushing game (teached from Klinsmann), after the 1-0, it was only a question of time when they will have sucess.
A player like Messi might have been more dangerous for the german defenders. But a player like Messi who plays only foreward would have made it easier for Klose and Podolski (most sucessfull strikers of the tournament) to score because they get more space by loosing a defender or midfielder. Teves and Crespo made a good job, there was no need to replace them.
Maybe, after all, the german team was just the better team despite they were to nervous first 45 minutes. Pekkerman plays the "bad boy" to keep the spirit of the argentinian team alive.
Posted: 9:28 PM   by civtorre
Pekerman was too conservative, He should have had Tevez, Saviola, Crespo and Messi as starters. He needed to take more chances against Germany. The only advantage that Germany had was being the home team. Pekerman practically played against Argentina. The south americans had plenty of weapons to defeat Germany, but Pekerman didn't use them. What a shame!
Posted: 9:31 PM   by Anonymous
I think Argentina's strategy must be to blame, more than the choice of starters, more than the use of subs, and clearly more than the officiating (which was fine). In the first half, they had something like 68% possession -- not too many chances, but still, they had neutralized the formidable German offense. Argentina continued to dominate possession in the first ten minutes of the second half, and scored. And then...

For the rest of the game, the Argentines could not hold possession, and eventually their midfield and defensive play descended into chaos, leading to the Klose goal. What could explain this sudden change in the game besides Argentina sitting back too much and losing discipline in the midfield?

I'm not sure whether you blame Pekerman or the players for this stark contrast between the first 55 minutes of play and the rest of the match. But either way Argentina has only themselves to blame, for not being aggressive enough in seeking a second goal. It's a familiar story, as others have pointed out, sitting on a one-goal lead. But I think it's particularly frustrating when it happens to a team capable of dominating possession (68%! against a good German team!). It seems such a waste of talent, skill, and hard work. I am sad for you, Argentina fans, but you should also be proud that you pushed a host country to the brink.
Posted: 9:33 PM   by Anonymous
Who cares about the Broncos or the Redskins. Go read about that "boring" sport somewhere else...
Posted: 9:35 PM   by Anonymous
could all of you american writers maybe give a little credit to the german team? thanks. sure, it was a close game, but your comment more or less states that only argentina was responsible for the outcome. if I was on tv now, I'd have to pay for phrasal overkill, but: there are always two teams to play a game.
Posted: 9:38 PM   by Anonymous
The Vatican is not in Argentina, sadly. Difficult time for the Pope for next game, whom will he pray for?
Posted: 9:38 PM   by Anonymous
Where's this Brazil hostility towards Germany coming from? Did we something to them I don't know? Or is it just fear?
Posted: 9:38 PM   by Anonymous
I don't agree with this article.

Pekerman did made the correct choices, Messi is good, but too young an I don't think he could have handled well in this match. It doesn't matter if you leave Maradona in the bench, if it's not advisable to let him in, even if looks like a sin, leave him in the bench. It's about to win, not to put the players the people wants, leave the coach do his job.

The referee Michel Lubos, in my opinion, was ABSOLUTELLY pro-german NOT neutral.

Germany wasn't a good team, it won't win the cup.

I'm also ashamed of the german press, they mock of Argentineans and play all kind of jokes, I thought germans were a bit more intelligent to know that they won because of the penalty lotery, nothing else.
Posted: 9:38 PM   by Anonymous
Fine, maybe you're right. Maybe the coach is a moron and things would have been different if he'd made all of the personnel moves as you suggested. But if the shootout had gone the other way, you'd be heralding him as a genius. I know you're a pundit and it's your job to express an opinion but can we at least acknowledge that it's possible the manager knows a few things about his players that we don't? Can we acknowledge that he's forgotten more about the game than most of us will ever know and that he understands the consequences of his decisions better than we do? The team lost. Is that really entirely his fault?

All of this reminds me of the '98 Final when everyone was criticizing Brazil's manager for playing Ronaldo when he was ill. Never mind that Vintage '98 Ronaldo was still a lot better at 80% than anyone on the bench, was it Ronaldo's fault that France scored two goals?

And why do we always have to emphasize the negative anyway? Why not praise Lehmann as Hero of the Day instead? He certainly earned it.
Posted: 9:40 PM   by Anonymous
How much did germany pay to that referee? coz it's clear that referee played for germany. Argentina is the best team in this world cup and deserved the cup, but things weren't fair in this match. And this is for the brazilean fans: don't be proud of a team that still didn't play soccer, coz this is all about "soccer" and brazil this year is a shame, Viva Argentina!
Posted: 9:43 PM   by tony
In spite of the fact that Pekerman did some serious mistakes , I believe the main reason why Arg didn´t win the match is the unfairhful refereeing that was clearly pro-german. It was really a lack of respect to see that referreing in a world cup and the las straw was the ignored fault that made Abondancieri (Argentina´s goalkeeper)leave the field injured. Argentina played better all the time and, although Messi wasnt playing , it showed superiority all along the match. It should have won and I believe It did´t because the match was fixed. The corruption showed by the actions of the refereeing was disgusting.
Posted: 9:44 PM   by Anonymous
Wasn't Mr. Wahl the same person that predicted a pure South-American final? Dude, not only are your predictions wrong but also do you have no clue about soccer!! Typical American!
Posted: 9:46 PM   by Anonymous
Great game !
Both teams seemed to be very equal but Argentinia was playing better in the first half. After the 1:0 the Germans knew what they had to do and they did it! (beautiful goal btw)

Normaly in the PK-round it is all about the nerves, but this time it was all about Lehmann !
Ahead of the WC there was an issue about him and Kahn, and who of them is the better keeper. I think this issue was solved today once and for all.

The brawl at the end was a shame. Sorry Argentinians, but if you can't loose, you woulnd't have deserved to win.

BERLIN ! BERLIN ! WIR FAHREN NACH BERLIN !
Posted: 9:49 PM   by Anonymous
Bad losers! Their luck ran out and they blamed the ref, and the weather. They were lucky to escape alive from the Mexico game. Give credit where credit is due, Germany played well and did not give up. Argentina...well, they showed it on the pitch after the game, they punched their opponents and everyone on their way. What losers....
Posted: 9:50 PM   by Anonymous
In any case, Argentina would have been embarrassed by Brazil once again...just like in the Confederations Cup. Have a good trip home...
Posted: 9:50 PM   by civtorre
Pekerman was too conservative from the beginning of the game, he should have started with Tevez, Crespo and Messi as forwards, the Riquelme's job would have been easier. Pekerman should to be afraid of Germany by putting the team that he put only with Tevez and Crespo, but if we analize this, even Tevez who is a natural forward ended up playing as a mid field. I don't understand his mentallity, he had all the weapons to defeat Germany, but he didn't use them, even Klinsmann was surprised with the team that Argentina started. Germany is playing at home, thats a huge advantage. Pekerman made a regretful mistake by including only his defensive team. What a shame!
Posted: 9:53 PM   by Anonymous
Cunning argentinian cardsharpers lost to german straight forwardness. That's all there is to it, and I like it ;-)
Posted: 9:55 PM   by Anonymous
Now if you want to see real football watch the Oklahoma Sooners this year!
Posted: 10:02 PM   by Anonymous
Both teams played excellent football, on an outstanding quality level. It was a match of titans that so many people looked forward to see. Well, one has to go. I am neither an argentinian nor a german fan, but football is a matter of strength, tactics, team spirit and stamina -and considering all these points, the Germans lead this match.

What I had to realize today, and this really embarrasses me, is to see what lousy losers argentinian fans (and players!) are. They started a fight after the game -and the argentinian fans commenting here are using every lousy, childish excuse they're able to find. It's a shame!

As many others said here afore -the Germans deserved winning this match without a question. If I can accept this -do the same. I love football for the essence of the game -and before today, I respected the argentinians. But after seeing that after-game fight and reading all those terrible "excuses" of argentinian fans here, I am so disappointed of this.

Argentinians: here's the next lesson for you -learn to lose like men. Don't play the crybabies. Just realize if you made mistakes.

Even in this issue, the German team proved to be the better one.
Posted: 10:03 PM   by Anonymous
Re:
"It is odd that Argentina is lambasted for their well known diving and hard fouls while Germany is given a pass for the exact same behavior.

- Nobody ever argued that Germany did not engage in hard fouls. Tey just don't crumble on contact hoping that the other team will get carded

"I guess Europeans always like to pretend they are more "civilized" though their behavior speaks volumes"

-Don't make me laugh (or cry). Who started shoving and attacking players and managers at the end of the match? You are right: behavior speaks volumes

"I mean, the few actual German players in the team. Poles, French, Ghanians; are there no Germans left in Germany?"

- You should be ashamed of these comments. Show me some "native" Brazilians in the first place. And re-read your history book on Portuguese immigration to Brazil hundreds of years ago. We are proud in Germany to be able to integrate and welcome people from different cultures and countries, although nobody is perfect. Notice the banner "No racism" that the players held up? Your behavior really speaks volumes indeed.

We Germans love Brazilians and their soccer and have always supported Brazil over all other teams other than Germany. And people like you will not change that. If Brazil plays the better soccer and wins, I will even buy you a Wiener Schnitzel.
Posted: 10:03 PM   by Anonymous
it's awesome to know that Argentina is going back home, because their team is snob and an argentinian web site wrote that they were superior than Germany and they lost because of the referree, but I don't think so. I saw the game and unffortunatelly they didn't show a good soccer for winning the match, and as I'm brazilian I loved it all and we think here in Brazil the final game is going to be Brazil x Germany. And our hermanos are going to watch the game on TV one more time...
Posted: 10:21 PM   by Anonymous
Let me start off that im a big Germany fan..born there grew up in the states. And going into this WC didnt think much of our chances due to the pervious performences..but knew we would get out of the groups. And all i read about on these blogs before and after each germany game i read people saying germany stinks they are no good lucky..etc..germany is playing great plain and simple..yea some luck which all good team need from time to time. They are a strong side and finally showing the world again how good germany is. Lastly whoever posted germany is no real soccer power i dont know where they get that. Country that made the final 7 times tkaing it home 3 times only tied for second most i wonder.
Posted: 10:21 PM   by Anonymous
Chucu,

that's the reason Argentinia is on its way home.
All in all good game from both teams, excellent referee and absolutely bad behaviour by the Argentinians after the match. The Argentinians should have used their energy on the field instead of fighting after the game.
Posted: 10:22 PM   by Anonymous
i dont know if lubos michel was watching the same game i was watching...because the stuff that he marked in favor of Germany were mostly non-existent...I FELT ASHAMED AND EVEN PITIFUL for the guy... i mean the yellow that he gave Rodriguez!!?? what was he thinking?! he could NOT have made it any more obvious that FIFA was pressuring him to mark in favor of Germany...that was one of the most shameful refereeing i have seen in this worldcup...

it was expected that the referee was going to favour Germany on todays match given the fact that Germany hosts the WC...but i never expected it to go this far...

FIFA should be ASHAMED!
Posted: 10:25 PM   by Anonymous
It is nice to know that a team that didn't deserve to play today is going back home. Germany will take first in the cup no problem.
Posted: 10:26 PM   by Anonymous
ARGENTINA ES EL MEJOR EQUIPO DEL MUNDO? NO HOY!!

Look Argentina outplayed Germany first half and up through their goal but then they just stopped playing their style! They packed it in and got too defensive and it cost them. And the injury to the goalkeeper really hurt them in the sub department. The ref made some strange calls, but he didn't seem to favor one team over the other, and he didn't impose himself so much that he ruined the flow of the match.

Germany looks pretty good to me and the home advantage may get them past Italy on Tuesday.
Posted: 10:27 PM   by Anonymous
Pekerman may have made a blunder, but was it really. Messi is amazing yes, but just few days older than 19. Experience is still a bit lacking in a major game. I would have loved to see Messi instead of Cruz. But he went with defense and experience. It's a 50-50 judgement call. Would some the Argentine faithfull be calling for Pekerman's head if he added Messi and still lost? He coached it defensively.

This was the match of the cup to date with a serious contender going home regardless. Allot of the calls went Germany's way, but it was, for the most part, fairly called. When was the last time you saw a team use a back-up goalie at this level and win.

I do feel that the Argentine side was and still is the better side, and possibly the best team in the cup. But the best do not always win.

And looking at Klose, Podolski, and a few others.... didn't Germany give Poland back after WWII?

Great game Germany. I think they will win the Final. They look more complete than any other teams left. Brazil, Italy, France, and England are shells of the teams they should be. Portugal is strong but is lacking offense to get past the Brits with all the red's that the Russian handed out last Sunday.

My Argentine heart hangs a little lower tonight. Though I would love to see Peckerman coach the US team.
Posted: 10:33 PM   by Anonymous
Ref Lubos Mitchel was the 12th player of the german team. Fifa dont have "fairplay" and all is prepared to give the world cup to the germans. No justice, no football. Argentina was the best team playing real football an they are returning home.
Posted: 10:34 PM   by Anonymous
This is Germany`s last win..they will not get far..if the ref does not help them.
Posted: 10:37 PM   by Nicholas Pappas
Argentina has always been my favorite. What this Pekerman did is totally uncomprehensible. Where was the thinking coming from? Nevertheless, the team was professional and respectable. Thank you for your talent.
Posted: 10:37 PM   by Anonymous
The best team won today - no question or excuse about it. Coaches, trainers, players, etc all make up a TEAM. The best team won.
Posted: 10:38 PM   by Anonymous
I'm an American with no rooting interest in this game, but I gotta say - Argentina fans, Germany deserved to win that game. Klose's goal off the double header was sick - best goal of the tournament so far. Let's hope the semi is as exciting as that was. Forza Italia!
Posted: 10:43 PM   by Anonymous
Good morning AMERICA!

It ist 4.37 a.m. - I have lost all my words, but it is just wonderful and fantastic! - We did it, and have just two; - two 2 go!

Best wishes 2 all - God bless America...
Posted: 10:44 PM   by Anonymous
since 1966, neither european teams or south american teams have won back to back WC. So this year it's going to be an european team, now the question is which one it is???

If it does happen, perhaps a conspiracy?
Posted: 10:48 PM   by Anonymous
Back in '92 Pekerman did the same when Argentina played against Spain. His lack of coaching in the clutch is appalling.
Posted: 10:56 PM   by Anonymous
I must be the only one not convinced that Messi was a better choice in the midfield. The kid is brilliant but he is a kid and what I saw of him in the world cup was a player who has a huge upside but who gives the ball up to easily. I for one don't blame Pekerman for not putting the fate of Argentina in the hands of a child. Argentina had plenty of talent on the field to win it. Poorly taken PK's are what cost them the game.
Posted: 10:57 PM   by Anonymous
"Another pathetic display from Argentina after the match, the same like after the 1990 final"

Argentina was robbed that day man. A couple of days ago Andreas Brehme (!!!!!) finally "confessed" that the penalty that won them the match, shouldn't have been awarded.
Posted: 11:01 PM   by Anonymous
Argentina plays better football than Germany!!! Argentina plays with style and passion, its south american football, and Germany just kicks the ball and hopes for luck to fall on their side! I hope Brazil takes the cup and shows them that their luck has run out.
Posted: 11:07 PM   by cdevito81
Italia is just hitting their stride when it counts. Still have not allowed an opponent to score yet and they can attack before you know what hit ya. Italy will be in the finals because Germany can not match up with the talent on the other side of the ball.
Posted: 11:08 PM   by Anonymous
what makes a good team? being able to win a match when you arent playing anywhere near what your capable of. thats just what germany did. and quit crying about the refs, you want a bad ref'ed game, go watch italy and US again. this ref did a great job, he didnt hinder the game with a new record of yellow and red cards. by the way, that was clearly a dive in the penelty box by the argentinian player. he took a dive too early, you can see it on the replay easily, he started "tripping" before there was any contact, if he woulda timed it right then he coulda sold the foul for a pk so dont blame the ref on that one. and to hit on the comment about germany not playing football and just hoping it hits on one of their strikers heads..c'mon that was a desperate remark. the games all about using your advantage, germany was taller and stronger so they should take advantage of that, besides germany has made plenty of goals off the feet of their strikers, thats called being good all around. its not their fault argentina didnt use their speed and agility to the fullest. saying germany doesnt belong with the greats of soccer is just idiotic, they have always had a very strong soccer tradition, a country doesnt win 3 world cups and be in 4 more final games because they arent good, and this is a whole new german team, they arent nearly as robotic as before, but just as proficient. and how bout stopping those penalty kicks, he may not have stopped them all but he guessed the right direction every time. italy could be tough, but then again they havnt played too amazing nor has brazil. germany has a great chance of taking it all if they play like they want it. all in all , hats off to both teams, they played a great game.
Posted: 11:09 PM   by Anonymous
Come on, all we know is going to be European teams finals this time, we all know last world cup for south america nd this time European team and Blatter not gonna let you win in Europe, the Final is Italy and England
Posted: 11:12 PM   by Anonymous
"Ahead of the WC there was an issue about him and Kahn, and who of them is the better keeper. I think this issue was solved today once and for all."

Well, in my mind, it hasn't been solved. I would still favor Kahn over Lehmann. And I would favor Robert Enke over both of them, and over Hildebrand, of course. Enke has been voted the best German keeper by his peers two years in a row now - and deservedly so. I don't understand why Klinsmann didn't nominate him for the WC. But still, I'm happy with this win, and I will be happy with the next two wins, as well...
Posted: 11:16 PM   by Anonymous
"I mean, the few actual German players in the team. Poles, French, Ghanians; are there no Germans left in Germany?"

This is by far the stupidest comment of them all. I mean, are there Americans in the US?
Posted: 11:16 PM   by Anonymous
Sure. It is all a conspiracy against Argentina. Boy, they nearly won. Huhu, it was on pnealties and they chickend out in the 120 minutes before. Don't blame the German team for this. They just did their thing.

Berti Vogts said the same after Germany lost to Croatia 1998. Nobody in Germany understood what's he talking about. Now he's gone and forgotten. Lame excuses are lame excuses. Just lose and be cool with it.
Posted: 11:17 PM   by Anonymous
Argentina did indeed play better in the first half. However, just because they had several large slip ups does not mean you should go and blame the reffing. As a long time German and especially FC Bayern fan, I can't wait for the finals.

Germany has an excellent striking squad as well as a quality defense that should more than counter what the brazilians can put up. Besides, Brasil hasn't exactly been playing well recently.

All I have to say is..

Ballack und Schweinsteiger!!

Berlin! Berlin! Wir fahren nach Berlin!
Posted: 11:17 PM   by Anonymous
I'm a die hard german fan. Always will be. Throughout the 120 minutes of great football I had the outmost respect for argentina. They are a well organized team with a lot of tallent. However, it's really sad to see how they always react to a loss. and even their fans (from their e-mails) seem to have no respect for any team. For that reason, I'm really glad they lost. It makes it much more sweet.
People are saying Germany didn;t have a good game. For God's sake, they were playing "The best team god's ever created" and still they matched them all along.
By the way, PKs are no luck. Germany never loses in PKs and any person with half a brain with think it's not about luck. I'm sorry, if you are a team that misses two PK's (and ugly ones by the way) then maybe you shouldn't be a world champ.

I hope I'm wrong, but I think this would be it for germany. I really think that this game will take its toll on them. I hope I'm wrong.

By the way, Germany never lost in dortmound:)
Posted: 11:18 PM   by Anonymous
Someone wrote: In spite of the fact that Pekerman did some serious mistakes , I believe the main reason why Arg didn´t win the match is the unfairhful refereeing that was clearly pro-german. .....
Hey guys! What are you talking about? Have you ever seen a certain Byron Moreno de Equador?
Posted: 11:18 PM   by Anonymous
It was sad seeing such a talent like Messi not get the chance to shine, but we have seen that throughout this WC. Despite all the hype that surrounded Tevez, I was never too excited about him. He was three time player of the year, but in South America. It is a totally different level of competition in South America as compared to Europe. Van Nistelrooy for Holland against Portugal and Harry Kewell for Australia throughout the tournament. Germany will definitely provide a tougher matchup in the finals for Brazil (assuming the two make it that far, which they should) due to the fact that not only are they a European team playing in Europe, but they are also the home team.

Congrats to the Germans and California Klinsi!
Posted: 11:23 PM   by Anonymous
You some times wonder whether some of these matches are fixed. It simply does not make sense to have not played Messi.
Posted: 11:30 PM   by Lucky Otter
Not to take anything away from the Germans, who have played brilliantly throughout the tournament, Argentina had the spark and would have had the late, and most likely winning fire had Coach Perkerman subbed Lionel Messi. He would have won over the crowd, freaked out the Germans a bit, and most probably had won the match. Despite the fact that the Coach has the final say, better decisions have been made and need to be made if Argentna is to recapture the World Cup.
Posted: 11:31 PM   by Anonymous
"How much did germany pay to that referee? coz it's clear that referee played for germany. Argentina is the best team in this world cup and deserved the cup, but things weren't fair in this match."

"The referee Michel Lubos, in my opinion, was ABSOLUTELLY pro-german NOT neutral."

And blah, blah, blah...

When the Germans win, it's never because they played well, is it? It's the weak opponent, or the weather, or the luck, or the Argentinian coach. If all other apologies fail, it's because of the referee.

What a bunch of bad losers some of you guys are. Sour grapes and hand-wringing. In truth, it is not the referee who is biased here, but you. We saw two great teams today, playing on an equal footing, and in the end, with a bit of luck and superior determination, it was the Germans who won. Get over it, will you?

I'm German, and I'm happy and proud of what our team did in this tournament. Once again, they have proven the naysayers wrong, shown the value of willpower and team spirit, and kicked a supposedly superior opponent out. To come back from 0-1 against one of the best teams in the world, 10 minutes before the end of regular playtime, under enormous pressure, and then to win the nerve battle of the penalty shootout - that is a feat! I doubt that any of you whiners and know-it-alls would have the guts for that. We'll never know, but I feel we'd even have done it with Messi on the field. Germany wanted to win at all costs, Argentina didn't, and that's the end of it.

Will we beat Italy, or even go on and win the cup? I don't know. What I do know is that, if we get kicked out, I'll be congratulating the winning side, saying "Well done mates, the better team won today". Not like some of the clowns here. If we go out, I'm confident that we will do it graciously, without screaming and finger-pointing and throwing a tantrum.
Posted: 11:32 PM   by Anonymous
Chao Argentina,

too bad the kid did not play, the last game, but Wow what a beautiful game agaisnt Serbia & Montenegro...
Posted: 11:36 PM   by Anonymous
The most of you, are from England? Right? Oi!
I saw your laughable votes for the England vs Brazil chance. lol
Portugal will wipe England away.
This team is so mediocre.
Pekerman did a good job. Messi, Riquelme, Crespo... no chance for anybody.
The awful german defenders did a great job.
Now it's time to show the Italians the way home.
Posted: 11:37 PM   by jpinilla
Messi? Really? Are we watching the same player? Every time I saw him, he stayed on the ball too long and eventually lost it. Yes, he has incredible touch. But all that does is slow down Aregentina's speed of play. Messi may one day become a great player. But he wasn't this Cup.If it hadn't been for the awful duo of JP and Marcello continually screaming his name, most people probably wouldn't even have noticed him.
Posted: 11:42 PM   by Anonymous
The better team is the theam that wins- and that was nonetheless Germany!

Argentina did not deserve to win at all, as they lost all their dignity after the PK!!
It was a shame to see the brawl, and they deserve to fly home.
Posted: 11:43 PM   by Anonymous
DON'T CRY FOR ME ARGENTINA.........
SUCK IT UP AND GO HOME LOSERS!!!!!
THE REAL TEAM WILL DEFEND THE WORLD CUP AT HOME.
Posted: 11:44 PM   by Anonymous
Argentina lost, this is all. Get over with your excuses. ref, Subs etc.
Posted: 11:45 PM   by Futbolen Expert
It is easy to talk after the result is known.
What would everyone have said if Pato had not injured himself and Pekerman had played Messi and Saviola and Argentina lost in regular time?
Then everyone would say Messi was inexperienced and Saviola not as imposing as J Cruz...
Posted: 11:48 PM   by Anonymous
As a Brazilian fan, I have to say to the crying babies argentinians, we couldn't care less about you all. Every time you lose you come with lame excuses, and even when you won you had some "outside" help - la mano de dios de maradona and quiroga, the peruvian goalkeeper, so you're full of crap, good riddance.. go back to buenos aires querido
Posted: 11:50 PM   by Anonymous
pekerman made a very big mistake, messi should have been there instead of cruz.look what odonkor did with the argentinas defence he's fast and furious. messi could have done so for argentina.
Posted: 11:50 PM   by Anonymous
The game was an all round nail biter. Argentina clearly dominated during the first half and got too comfortable in the second. Germany picked up their game in the second half with an amazing goal.

Germany played well considering they had an extra player (The ref). Some of the calls the ref made were questionable.

As an Argenitnian I must admit that Messi was missed on the field. I dont understand what Pekerman was thinking taking Crespo off for Cruz.What a waste! Was Riquelme injured? I didn't know why he was taken off. Shame on you Pekerman for closing shop so early after the first goal.

To win by penalties during a World Cup is not really a win in my books. Regardless of the outcome. They should have just saved themselves the effort and flipped a coin.

I was looking forward to Brazil - Argentina... but that will have to wait.

Argentina: You are still a winner! Brazil: Rejoice. Your toughest competitor is gone. Good luck.
Posted: 11:52 PM   by Anonymous
people.........GERMANY rocks.....don`t u get it they`re the best..................
Posted: 11:54 PM   by MC Seitan
Argentina playing best soccer of the tournament.
That is definitely the JOKE of World Cup for me. The way they played against Holland and Mexico.. it looked as if bunch of amateurs playing.. U r joke duded.. STOP WRITING.
Posted: 11:59 PM   by Anonymous
the commentators were talking about the "tango" we were going to see from argentina. i didn't see it, but it may be because i'm blind. what i did see, though, was an argentine player kick a german player after argentina had lost the penalty shootout. in my book, if you haven't even passed your 101 sportsmanship class, you're not worthy of the championship no matter what.
Posted: 12:09 AM   by Anonymous
germany deserved to win, its a shame that argentina has no sportsmanship win they win, they set a bad example for the future footballers of argentina
Posted: 12:09 AM   by Anonymous
Listen to all the whining Argentina fans - blaming everything except their players for taking two rubbish penalties!That's all it came down to.

Read the players' quotes:
http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/060630/1/8gc4.html

every single Argentina player moans and complains about being the better team and being unlucky. Was it bad luck that Ayala and Cambiasso took poor penalty kicks and the Germans made 4/4 good kicks?
Posted: 12:11 AM   by Anonymous
Germany continues to look very strong. After the Costa Rica match, that soft, soft defense has improved greatly.

I was pulling for Argentina, but they didn't seem to want to play the style of football that got them here.

Germany had a tough time finishing; they looked hesitant around the box.

I don't think Italy can take them.

Credit to the coach and the players who are making this an excting Cup.
Posted: 12:19 AM   by Anonymous
maybe argentina would of had a better day if they just wouldn't have had such long pretty hair
Posted: 12:26 AM   by Anonymous
FIFA Official match stats:

Shots:
Germany 10
Argentina 12

Shots on target:
Germany 5
Argentina 5

Posession:
Germany 42%
Argentina 58%

So Argentina had slightly more of the ball, but didn't create many more chances.

How can anyone claim that Argentina "dominated" and deserved to win?!
Posted: 12:26 AM   by Anonymous
Unfortunately, the best team of the tournament have left the scene.
Posted: 12:30 AM   by Anonymous
Typical Argentina - make sneaky fouls on the opponent then try to look innocent in front of the referee. And whenever anyone touches them, fall over, roll around, and demand a yellow card for the opponent.

Their players behavior during and after the penalty kicks was typically disgraceful too.

It is a shame they play like this when they have such skill and talent.
Posted: 12:33 AM   by VInay
Hail Argentina...Good Game ,great show by Argentina ...They needed bit of luck ,Messi and Reqiuelme
Posted: 12:40 AM   by Anonymous
The referee was not pro-German. He was pro-"dive." He bought almost every dive during the game. If this makes for an "excellent" referee, so be it. The Germans realized that this ref leaned toward dives, and they came out diving during the second half. As several sports writers have observed, diving is an art that the Americans must learn if they are ever to be considered an elite WC team.
Posted: 12:48 AM   by Anonymous
It's "lose", not "loose", losers. ;)

About the incidents after the game, they've started an investigation... For those who saw it, it seems the "metrosexual" guy in the black suit said or did something to provoke the Argentine team. I'm not trying to justify their behavior, but I don't think anyone has mentioned this. It's not like the Argentines started a fight just because.

Germany will win the World Cup, whether they deserve it or not. Only one time has a non-European team won a WC in Europe. This time it's Germany's turn. Neither France or Italy could do it.
Posted: 12:50 AM   by Anonymous
I read all the comments here and even do not understand why you Argentinian fans are blaming the german team or the referee for the lack of cleverness of your own team?
Everyone (even the German media) said that the game Germany vs. Argentina would be a final match and it would be a very hard piece of work to win this for both teams. So what?
Would it had been a "great" game if Argentina could have been able to hold this lousy 1:0 till the end? I do not think so.
In my oppinion this was the most thrilling game at this WC so far.
And the upcoming game Germany vs. Italy will also be a very "emotional" game for the fans.
No German has ever expected that the German team could go this far (remember the European Championship 2002).
Btw: Are Argentinian footballplayers not able to lose or cant they cope with losing a game? I mean this sort of "kung fu action" after the game. THIS was absolutely embarrassing and ridiculous and a shame for "fair play"!
And is the world going down when Argentina is not winning the WC? Dont you have other things to be proud of? Think about it, wimps!
Posted: 12:51 AM   by Anonymous
There's no guarantee that Messi would have scored a goal for Argentina, but leaving him on the bench was stupid.

All credit to a hard-working German side and a goalie that got hot when his team needed him most.
Posted: 12:59 AM   by Anonymous
still can't understand why nobody sees it like I do; no matter how many saviolas or riquelmes or messis argentina presented in the game, they'd still lose the game. argentines are merely entertainers and sometimes "fortunate winners." Psst..meanwhile, brazil is leaving the tournament tomorrow courtesy of france. Go les bleus!!!
Posted: 1:15 AM   by Anonymous
Perhaps Argentina had the better players, but will to fight back and win can overcome that. Argentina tried to waste time and play for the 1-0 win, thus leaving the door open for the Germans, who dominated the last 35 minutes of the normal time and had better fitness in extra time. The game was won fairly in penalties, so the poor, poor sportsmanship of Cufre attacking cleats up on Mertesacker was very disheartening and shows Argentina can't lose with grace. This does not make a great team, sorry.
Posted: 1:26 AM   by Anonymous
Many of those making comments have a personal bias against Argentina, regardless of the opponent....Truth is many teams would love to have at least a little of the talent of the Argentinian team, including Germany, Brazil and Mexico.....Argentina lost because of poor subs chosen by coach Pekerman, well fine, but they were the better team throughout , and they tried hard to finish the game off in the final minutes unlike the germans who seemed content with the draw....As for the fight at the end of the match, it was initiated by provocations from Oliver Bierhoff, an ex-german player now turned assistant coach , a born loser....

I got new for german and brazilian fans: ITALY is lurking right there and it is very likely it will win it all....Mark my words...
Posted: 1:27 AM   by Anonymous
Cufre did kick Mertesacker into his jewels, the "metrosexual guy" intervened. Why should germ,any start a brawl they won? You've seen Maxi Rodriguez run 20 meter only to hit Schweinsteiger on his head? D_I_S_G_R_A_C_E_F_U_L and this whining about the ref just adds.

Really - the better team and sportsmen won today. Germany!!!

This night I've lost truckloads of respect for the Argentinian team and his supporters. Look at the Australians. Got an unfair penalty 10 secs before end and still showed greatness in their defeat, even had kind words fo the ref.
Posted: 1:27 AM   by Anonymous
Germany is lucky and had the refs on there side, they should lose to Italy, but then again i thought the same thing against argentina so you never know, if we have an england-germany final it would be bad for the game of football, two horrible teams helped by an easy draw who do not play attractive soccer. Forza Italia!
Posted: 1:53 AM   by Anonymous
European football is boring and lame, Germany got lucky tonight, courtesy of Pekerman. brazil is still there to show how football should be played and they shall prevail at the end. Argentina might be out but with the right coach no team can match their talent in future. I can't wait to see England and Germany get knocked out, maybe Germany will win against Italy because of home fans and referee, but they will go down against Brazil and ah the satisfaction of seeing tears in eyes of cheater ballack and Klinsmann, who I must admit is brilliant coach and I hate every inch for that.
Posted: 2:11 AM   by Anonymous
Now, it's gonna be the champions of luck facing each other - Italy vs. Germany. Italy is a better diving team and their experience in buying out referees is "unmatchable". The Germans used to have good teams in the past but now it's the mere emotions driving them through opponents... We all remember S. Korea in 2002! This is just the same.
We know someone is going to run out of luck on Tuesday... I know I won't be watching that bore fest.
Posted: 2:20 AM   by Arkitkt
Stop this nonsense...Argentina is way overrated. They can beat Serbia and Montenegro..luck out against Mexico..
When was the last time they won anything?????? Nothing in 20 years..that is a lifetime. Ciao, have a great flight home and I look forward to Brazil beating you again in the Cup America.
Posted: 2:20 AM   by Anonymous
After reading through all of this and watching the sports news I can't believe that the deciding factor of the game has barely been touched at all:

-Abbondanzieri got kneed in the side by a German player (a foul that wasn't even called by the ref and left the poor guy doubled-over)
-The goal that tied the game came a few minutes after the replacement goalie came in because Abbondanzieri could no longer play(who was horrible)
-Obviously everyone saw how the Argentine backup goalie did on the PK's...enough said

Everyone keeps mentioning Messi (which is true to an extent) but has anyone stopped to think "Abbondanzieri would have stopped German PK's cold"? Even more important "Abbondanzieri would have easily blocked that header that tied the game." I have no doubt in my mind that Abbondanzieri was the one that truly made the difference in the game when he became injured. And to German fans: I guess this is payback for when we screwed you guys over in Mexico almost 20 years ago. Fair enough. See you in 2010 =)
Posted: 2:30 AM   by Anonymous
Brazil? The fat blokes that cannearly step one footbfore another and were everybody is fighting for themselves. And what did Italy show until today? Lucky win against Ghana (Kuffour made one of his things again), bad game against USA, the Czechs gave up before the game, most lucky win against Australia (and you say the ref favored Germany, biggest laugh I had today) and today "please roll over me" Ukraine. Italy had no opponent until now.
Posted: 2:37 AM   by Anonymous
Klinsmann's in-match genius against Argentina is just one more reason why U.S. Soccer must do everything possible to land him as its next coach. Problem is, Klinsmann won't have the luxury of subs like Tim Borowski or Oliver Neuville on Team USA. ... Here's hoping Klinsmann takes American soccer to the next level.
Posted: 2:44 AM   by Dogefiesco
It is all a matter of fashion. Gefore WWII, the key was offense. Starting Copa 1970, defense became the rage, and though it is on the wane, it has not disappeared yet. In particular, European football, as categorized by Italy (since the catenaccio era)and England.
The other problem is the EGOTRIP of the coach. A narrow-minded coach, no matter how gifted he might be, will forever prefer the less brilliant, less extraordinary, the more submissive player, because to his mind, his GRIP on the team will otherwise weaken. Van Basten did it, prefering a relative nobody to van Nistelrooj, Pekerman with the idiotic misuse of the vast talent he was blessed.
Brazil has in the past suffered from the same coachind disease, but less than any other team. It symbolizes all over the world the triumph of talent over strategy. Strategy is very important, but will be an orphan without the likes of Leonidas, Pele, Garincha, Socrates, Romario, Rolando and others. It was talent that brought Brazil the five Cups, not strategy. True, this philosophy may have cost them the 1982 and 1998 cups, but kept alive the huge admiration for talent. Soccer must remain beautiful, for our sake!
Posted: 2:46 AM   by Anonymous
Bore fest on Tuesday? I advise you not to see a game were a team called ENGLAND is involved.
Posted: 3:06 AM   by Anonymous
I can understand that many comments here are saying that the germans are lucky. I think these opinions cannot be changed even if Germany wins the World Cup. They would say "by pure luck". As a german fan, I can agree that Argentina did a great job in the first 60 minutes, but with a ball possession of 60 % there was just one chance to score (the goal). That was also Germanys effort. Germany was very nerveous and didn't score in his few chance (remember Ballack's header in the 1st half). But after that, the game was an open battle with a great intense. Yes, Pekermann made wrong decisions but after an immense run of both teams, it was just fair to let the pk decide this match. Calling the referees decisions pro-german is wrong and onesided, but understandable if the own team loses. Remember the Argentinians are not famous of playing a "soft" soccer-style. They are as tough as they can play great soccer...Maybe this one was worth to be a final.
Posted: 3:13 AM   by Suhas
Can't beleive Messi was not given the chance.
Posted: 3:16 AM   by Anonymous
Soccer is a game with 22 players. It last 90 mins(regulary). And at the end Germany wins :).

Just as Lehman said before the match:

Argentinia has bad luck to meet us that early in tournament.

Oh and i lost my respekt for some Argentina players for the violence. Very very bad losers!

BERLIN BERLIN WIR FAHREN NACH BERLIN!
Posted: 3:59 AM   by Anonymous
GERMANY WE DID IT!
We controlled them 120 minutes!
And we had the better nerves!
Winning the game was NOT Pekerman's failure! It was our strength!
Posted: 4:03 AM   by Anonymous
Oh, wie ist das schön!

Argies were slightly better, but they weren't committed!

They didn't deserve to win because in the end they showed up as bad losers, kicking German players lying on the ground celebrating - go home, Argies!

Berlin, Berlin, wir fahren nach Berlin!!!
Posted: 4:12 AM   by Anonymous
If you looked into the faces of the Argentinians during the second half, you could see that they would loose. Even on tv you could sense their disappointment that they couldn't break our team and then they broke mentally. They got more and more frustrated and this culminated in their shameful actions after the game.
Both teams are very good, playing a very different style, but the main difference is, that giving up isn't really typical for Germans.
Posted: 4:39 AM   by Anonymous
Reading some the the comments it seems the Argentinians are really such bad looser
s as they players prooved after they lost. It was sad to see how they turned violent ...
Posted: 4:52 AM   by Anonymous
brazil?
brazil plays more "german" than the actual german team does.
they're still the favourites to win the tournament, but really: i'd prefer beautiful brazilian football winning by far over what we see these days from brazil.
Posted: 5:19 AM   by Chad
Some people here really can't lose.. I'm glad that Argentina is out becuase as you could see after the match on the field and just now here in the comments, they can't lose, they are bad mannered and they behave like little kids.

Sure blame the ref (who did an excellent job btw) or blame the field or whatever you want.
YOUR TEAM LOST BECAUSE IT DESEVERED TO LOSE, GET OVER IT AND STOP CRYING LIKE LITTLE KIDS!
Posted: 5:20 AM   by Anonymous
Argentina have only themselves to blame. During the first 30 minutes, I felt a growing unease as it becam obvious that the German plays that worked against Sweden would not work against Argentina -they were just too fast and aggressive. On top of that, German players, in contrast, lacked concentration and made lots of mistakes like having the ball bounce off when receiving a pass. But Argentina played too negative, being content with controlling the middle field. They created few chances for a goal, and even retreated after their lead. They placed a bet on being able to keep the 1:0, and lost. That's it.
Posted: 5:38 AM   by Anonymous
Lets have a neutral look at the game:

In the 1st half, Argentina was in ball posession most of the time but that's only the way they play: controlling the game.
They did not come close to the goal very often because the defenders did a great job (ditto for Germany).
In the 2nd half, Argentina gave the game out of their hands after their goal. The German team played nervously and was obviously under a lot of mental pressure.
It was then, when Pekerman substituted Riquelme and Crespo; he could not imagine that Germany would be able to equalize and so he wanted to take care of his most impotant players for the semi-final. These substitution were slightly risky, but noone would have bothered, if Argentina had beaten Germany
It came, as it comes very often: Germany scored a goal when noone exspected it to do so: bad luck for Pekerman but there is always a risk in a substitution.
The Germans won because of a thrilling keaper's performance and a lot of support by their fans.
As far as the referee is concerned, I cannot see that he was pro-German. The "penalty" was clearly a dive and when Cruz hit his elbow into Phillip Lahm's face, many referees would have sent him off. I have seen that Michel let the Germans get away in many controversial situations but I have also seen that most of these decisions were correct.
Germany has won with the help of their supporters, with a good bit of luck and with an outstanding keeper. So what? If you want to win the Cup, you must also have Fortune on your side. I have seen games where the German win was far less deserved.
One tip for Argentina: It's not enough to be good players, you have to play well.
Posted: 6:03 AM   by Anonymous
Wow! I am from Germany, and I'm thrilled! What a game!!!
I'd say that Argentina was better throughout the first half, though they had no chances either. After their lead, the Germans stepped up and deserved the equalizer. But going for penalties against Lehmann & Co - poor decision by Pekerman!
I hope we